Did you know that there are some countries in the world where Christmas is celebrated on 24th December? And there is a whole history behind. Countries in Europe and Latin America begin the Christmas celebrations early, i.e. a day before. Well, it is a whole week of celebrations until the 25th of December but in some countries it is a custom to celebrate a day before, and spent the ‘holy day’ in worship. That means no celebrations on the 25th.
If you don’t know it, then get along reading-
The regions of Eastern Europe and Scandinavia exchange their gifts and celebrate early on the day of Christmas Eve. Countries following this custom include – Czech Republic, Germany, Poland, Switzerland, Austria, Norway, Iceland, Sweden, Argentina, Brazil among a few.
There are a few reasons behind, some historic and some cultural. The practice is believed to have originated in Germany 200 years ago. Known as the Heiligabend Bescherung, the Royal family of Germany exchanges presents on Christmas Eve. The eve meal is known as ‘Heilegabendessen’ during which the gifts are exchanged.
Even in history, it has been observed that the holy day of December 25th is a religious day of worship, not for any kind of celebrations.
As per the Christian liturgical calendar, a day is said to begin and end upon sunset. There is no date known to Jesus Christ’s birth. The church designated it as the evening of 25th December. So his birthday then starts on the evening of December 24th and ends on the evening of 25th.
As per the established custom, the Christmas supper is served on the night of December 24th and the Christmas brunch on the afternoon of December 25th. The celebrations and festive gatherings often begin in the afternoon of the 24th in the Scandinavian countries with ‘Julafton’, feasts, games and Santa visits. The shops stay open early afternoon, and the festivities begin in the evening where presents are exchanged during supper at night. The Christmas is split in a two-day festival.
Moreover, earlier the practice of gift giving was conducted on December 6th which was Saint Nicholas day. It was later shifted after the Reformation. The arrival of Santa Claus also plays a role in Christmas celebrations. These kind of traditions and early festivities are only associated to the primary Christian specific cultures in parts of Europe. In the West, the Christian denominations observe December 25th as Christmas day.
The December 24th is thus, a day that celebrates culture, belongingness and long lasting traditions. It celebrates love, joy and giving among all, bringing people together for a Merry Merry Christmas!