Immediately following Thanksgiving, Christmas enthusiasts and retail stores alike begin the month-long buildup to the biggest holiday of the year. However, December contains many important holidays with deep historical roots despite not being deemed Hallmark-worthy. Check out the four December holidays happening this week and the significant stories behind each.
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Everything You Need To Know About St. Nicholas Day
In the modern era, Santa Claus has come to represent idyllic feelings of warmth, giving, and love. This jolly old man may be known by many names, including Kris Kringle, Papa Noel, Father Christmas, and Babbo Natale, but the ideals all stem from the real-life St. Nicholas. St. Nicholas Day is celebrated annually on December 6 and, traditionally, children will wake up to small gifts in their shoes. Read on to find out how this saint has inspired centuries of giving.
Everything You Need To Know About Hanukkah
This year, Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, begins on December 10 at sunset and will continue for eight nights. Although typically believed to be a religious holiday, Hanukkah is also a holiday to commemorate a great historical event in Jewish history. Read on to find out the inspirational history behind this holiday!
Everything You Need To Know About Our Lady Of Guadalupe Day
Worldwide, the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City is annually the most visited Catholic site, boasting an average of 20 million visitors each year. Our Lady of Guadalupe Day is celebrated December 12 to honor the Virgin Mary and an integral Catholic belief. Read on for the history of Our Lady of Guadalupe Day and why the sacred site continues to attract millions.
What Is St. Lucia Day And Where Is It Celebrated?
Different cultures around the world mark the kick-off to the Christmas season with their own unique events and traditions. In the United States, the Christmas season unofficially begins the second Thanksgiving ends. However, in Scandinavia, the season begins annually on December 13, more commonly referred to as St. Lucia Day. Read on to discover the remarkable history of St. Lucia and how she is honored each year.
