Page 171 - NT 2022 Almanac

25th December Christmas Day
The word Christmas comes from the Anglo-Saxon words Cristes Mæsse. It is the Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. In fact, his birth date is unknown. However, Christians wanted a day to celebrate their belief that Jesus brought goodness and light into the world. As there were already ‘light festivals’ at this time of year, such as Yule, it made sense to have Christmas then as well.
Saturnalia is an ancient Roman festival that probably influenced how and when Christmas is celebrated. It was dedicated to the god Saturn. All work and business stopped during the festival, and slaves were given a few days of freedom. People said “Lo Saturnalia!” to each other the way people today might say “Happy Christmas!” or “Happy Hanukkah!” At the end of the festival people would make presents of candles to one another or wax models of fruit.
31st December New Year’s Eve or Hogmanay
It is the last day of the year! Just before midnight, it is traditional to turn on a radio or television to follow the countdown of the last few minutes of the old year and to watch the display of fireworks over the River Thames in London. At this point, people often hug and kiss and start to sing the song ‘Auld Lang Syne’ – although they often don’t know the words! Here they are so that you can sing them this year:
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