Christmas

What Is Christmas?

December 25th is "Christmas," a Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. The word "Christmas" combines "Christ" and "Mass" (a religious service). There are several theories about why December 25th was chosen, but the most widely accepted is that early Christianity adopted the date of an ancient Roman winter solstice festival honoring the sun god.

How Christmas Is Celebrated Around the World

• Western/Christian-majority countries: Centered on church services, family meals, and gift exchanges. Traditional dishes vary by country—turkey, stollen, Christmas pudding, and more.
• Russia and Greece (Eastern Orthodox): Christmas is celebrated on January 7th, according to the older calendar.
• Japan: Established more as a commercial event than a religious one, centered around cake, fried chicken, and illuminations.
• The Nordic countries: The birthplace of the Santa Claus (St. Nicholas) tradition. Finland's Lapland is famous as "Santa's hometown."

The Origins of Santa Claus

Santa Claus traces back to St. Nicholas, a bishop from the 4th century in Asia Minor (present-day Turkey). According to legend, he secretly tossed gold coins through the windows of poor families at night (some say he placed them in stockings)—the origin of today's image of Santa Claus. The famous red-suited Santa is said to have been popularized worldwide through Coca-Cola advertising in the early 20th century.

Ideas for Enjoying Christmas

• Host a home party with homemade Christmas dishes (roast chicken, gratin, Christmas cake)
• Hang stockings with your kids and look forward to opening presents the next morning
• Experience the grandeur of music at a Christmas concert or church candlelight service
• Visit famous illumination spots around Japan, such as Roppongi Hills, Marunouchi, and Huis Ten Bosch