The Atlas of Christmas

Synopsis

A festive, delightfully-illustrated compendium that features holiday traditions from around the world. From Jólabókaflóð (Christmas Book Flood) in Iceland to Festa dei sette pesci (Feast of Fishes) in Italy and Christmas lanterns in the Philippines, The Atlas of Christmas uncovers the fascinating (and sometimes, downright odd) ways that people and nations celebrate the holiday season, and inspires us to share these unique traditions together with family and friends.

Do you know that in Guatemala there's a "Burn the Devil" tradition to kick off the Christmas season, where people gather to set fire to devil-piñatas? Or that in Sweden, a popular figure in Christmas traditions is the Yule Goat, a rowdy, menacing character who demands gifts? Serbian men traditionally throw grain and corn at a tree, then kiss its bark, before they cut it down to make a Yule Log. And in Japan, a big bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken has become the classic Christmas Day feast. These and many other global Christmas traditions are featured here in this delightful little book. From decorations and activities to feasts and special treats, there's a wide range of both lovely and unusual traditions from around the globe.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Birth of Christmas

* Summary: Examines the origins of Christmas, from pagan winter solstice celebrations to the Christian nativity story.
* Real Example: The Roman festival of Saturnalia, held in December, involved feasting, gift-giving, and the release of slaves.

Chapter 2: The Santa Claus Saga

* Summary: Traces the evolution of Santa Claus from the historical figure of Saint Nicholas to the modern-day icon.
* Real Example: The legend of Santa Claus delivering gifts on Christmas Eve is believed to have originated in the 1823 poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas" by Clement Clarke Moore.

Chapter 3: The Christmas Tree Tradition

* Summary: Explores the different origins and symbolism of Christmas trees, including the German tradition of decorating fir trees.
* Real Example: The first documented Christmas tree was set up in Strasbourg, France, in 1605.

Chapter 4: Christmas Carols and Music

* Summary: Discusses the origins and popularity of Christmas carols and other holiday music.
* Real Example: The popular carol "Silent Night" was first performed on Christmas Eve 1818 in a church in Austria.

Chapter 5: Christmas Food and Drink

* Summary: Examines the various traditional Christmas foods and beverages around the world.
* Real Example: The British Christmas pudding, made with dried fruit, spices, and brandy, is a beloved holiday dessert.

Chapter 6: Christmas Decorations

* Summary: Explores the different types of Christmas decorations, from ornaments to lights, and their cultural significance.
* Real Example: The tradition of hanging mistletoe at Christmas dates back to ancient Celtic cultures, where it was believed to bring good luck and fertility.

Chapter 7: Christmas Customs and Traditions

* Summary: Examines the various Christmas customs and traditions practiced around the world, including gift-giving, Santa Claus visits, and holiday feasts.
* Real Example: The German tradition of building "Weihnachtspyramiden," wooden pyramids with candles and figurines, is a popular holiday decoration.

Chapter 8: The Twelve Days of Christmas

* Summary: Explores the significance of the twelve days between Christmas Day and Epiphany, as well as the traditional customs associated with each day.
* Real Example: On the first day of Christmas, it is customary to give a gift of a partridge in a pear tree, as depicted in the song "The Twelve Days of Christmas."

Chapter 9: Christmas in Different Cultures

* Summary: Examines how Christmas is celebrated in various countries and cultures, highlighting both similarities and differences.
* Real Example: In Japan, Christmas is celebrated with a festive meal of fried chicken, a tradition influenced by American culture in the post-World War II period.

Chapter 10: The Future of Christmas

* Summary: Speculates on the potential future of Christmas, including the impact of technology, social change, and globalization.
* Real Example: The use of social media and video conferencing has allowed families to connect and celebrate Christmas virtually, even when physically separated.