When is Christmas and how do we say it in English?
Christmas is one of the most celebrated holidays around the world. It is the time when people come together to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. In many countries, Christmas is observed on December 25th. However, there are some variations in the dates and traditions associated with this festive season.
The Date of Christmas
In most Western countries, Christmas is celebrated on December 25th. This date was chosen to coincide with the winter solstice and the Roman festival of Saturnalia. It is believed that Jesus was born on this day, although the exact date of his birth is not known.
In Eastern Orthodox Christianity, Christmas is celebrated on January 7th. This is because the Eastern Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar, which is 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar used in the Western world.
Some countries, such as Armenia, celebrate Christmas on January 6th. This date is known as Epiphany or Three Kings' Day and marks the visit of the Magi to the baby Jesus.
How to Say "Christmas" in English?
In English, the word "Christmas" is used to refer to the holiday season and the day itself. It comes from the Old English word "Cristesm?sse," which means "Christ's mass." The term emphasizes the religious significance of the holiday.
There are also other ways to refer to Christmas in English. For example, you can say "Xmas," which is a common abbreviation. The "X" represents the Greek letter "chi," which is the first letter in the Greek word for Christ.
Additionally, Christmas is often referred to as "the holiday season" or "the festive season" in English-speaking countries. This is because Christmas is not just a one-day celebration but a period of several weeks leading up to December 25th.
Christmas Traditions around the World
Christmas traditions vary from country to country. Here are some examples:
1. United States: In the United States, Christmas is a major holiday. People decorate their homes with lights and ornaments, exchange gifts, and gather with family and friends to celebrate. Santa Claus is a popular figure associated with Christmas in the U.S.
2. United Kingdom: In the UK, Christmas is a time for traditional customs such as carol singing, sending Christmas cards, and pulling Christmas crackers. The Queen delivers a Christmas message to the nation, and families gather for a festive meal on Christmas Day.
3. Germany: Germany is known for its Christmas markets, where people can buy handmade crafts and enjoy traditional food and drinks. One of the most famous German Christmas traditions is the Advent calendar, which counts down the days until Christmas.
4. Mexico: In Mexico, Christmas celebrations begin on December 16th with the tradition of "Las Posadas." This involves reenacting Mary and Joseph's search for a place to stay in Bethlehem. The festivities continue until January 6th with the arrival of the Three Kings.
Conclusion
Christmas is a special time of year when people come together to celebrate and spread joy. While the date of Christmas may vary in different countries, the spirit of the holiday remains the same. It is a time for giving, sharing, and showing love to one another. So, whether you say "Christmas," "Xmas," or any other variation, the message is clear – it's a time to celebrate!