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The festival of Christmas falls on 25th December every year and is celebrated to mark the pious birth of Lord Jesus. Though, it is essentially a Christian festival, Christmas around the world is celebrated with much pomp and gaiety breaking all barriers of religion or nation. Christmas celebrations in England are equally lively and something to look forward to every winter season. People around the world plan their Christmas vacations in England where the celebrations go on for the entire month.
Christmas in England was first celebrated in as long as 596 AD. Ever since, it is being observed in the usual way just as the whole world. Colorful decorations comprising stars, bells and other items, colorful dazzling lights, exchange of wishes, greetings and gifts, attending midnight Mass or prayer sessions and grand feasts are all an integral part of Christmas celebrations in England. However, there’s something more that makes the festival interesting and England has its own unique ways of celebrating Christmas.
One of them is Mummering, an age-old traditional custom followed in England during the Christmas season. The custom dates back to the Middle Age when the masked “mummers” enacted Christmas plays portraying the birth of Lord Jesus. The tradition has carried on till date, particularly in the villages and towns of England during the Christmas celebrations.
Another important part of Christmas in England is the giving of gifts by Father Christmas, popularly known as Santa Claus. The grand feast or Christmas dinner is organized on the Christmas day, i.e. 25th December, after the Mass prayers at the church. Also, it is believed that before the Christmas dinner, people in England do not eat anything except Frumenty, a locally-made porridge made from corn. The grand dinner is thus planned thoroughly, comprising roasted turkey coupled with sauce and vegetables and is truly lip-smacking. The dinner is then followed by an equally delicious traditional dessert known as Christmas pudding with brandy sauce.
England Xmas celebrations also include another custom wherein the Boy Bishop is elected in the fond memory of St. Christmas. Just the day after Christmas is the Boxing Day, named so as the local boys collect money gathered from the festival in clay boxes.
We at Web Travels offer online booking for you and your family to enjoy Christmas in England. Plan a holiday with us and experience joyous memories of celebrating this glorious festival with your near and dear ones in the beautiful land of England.
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