Some More Christmas Songs Origins

 

Some of the most popular Christmas carols we hear all throughout December has its origins long before we were born. Here are just some of those most popular Christmas songs and how it started.

Joy to the World - Written in 1719 by English minister and hymnist Isaac Watts, "Joy to the World" is a Christmas carol and hymn. It is typically sung to a tune attributed to George Frideric Handel, which was arranged by American composer Lowell Mason in 1848. The lyrics of the hymn are a Christian interpretation of Genesis 3 and Psalm 98.

Despite not being initially linked with Christmas, "Joy to the World" has become the most-published Christmas song in North America since the 20th century, appearing in 1,387 hymnals as of December 2009, according to the Dictionary of North American Hymnology.

Isaac Watts, an English hymn writer and pastor, wrote "Joy to the World" using a Christian interpretation of Genesis 3 and Psalm 98.  The song was first used in reference to the Christian State and Worship in Watts' 1719 compilation The Psalms of David: Imitated in the Language of the New Testament.  Watts' Christological view is the paraphrase.  As a result, he does not give each of Psalm 98's themes equal weight.  Watts describes heaven and earth celebrating the arrival of the King in the first and second stanzas. Since the lyrics of this hymn speak of Christ's Second Coming rather than the Virgin birth of Jesus, Watts did not write it as a Christmas song.  Christ's benefits triumphantly extend across the world of sin in stanza three, an interlude that refers to Genesis 3:17–19 rather than the psalm text.  Because the line "far as the curse is found" is repeated so cheerfully, several hymnals have left this stanza off.  However, when viewed through the lens of the New Testament, as Watts does when interpreting the psalm, the passage makes joyful sense.  "The nations are called to celebrate because God's faithfulness to the house of Israel has brought salvation to the world," says stanza four, which celebrates Christ's rule over the nations.

The First Noel - The First Nowell, also known as Nowel, is a classic English Christmas carol with Cornish origins that most certainly dates from the early modern era, though it may have been earlier. It has been modernized as "The First Noel" or Noël.  According to the Roud Folk Song Index, it is number 682.

The current version of "The First Nowell" was originally published in Carols Ancient and Modern (1823) and Gilbert and Sandys Carols (1833), both edited by William Sandys. Davies Gilbert, who also composed additional lyrics, arranged and revised the song for Hymns and Carols of God.

Nowell is an Early Modern English synonym for "Christmas" that comes from the Latin natalis [dies] (day of birth) and the French noël (the Christmas season).  The phrases "Nowell sing we now all and some" (Trinity Carol Roll), "Nowel – out of youre slepe arise and wake" (Selden Carol Book), and Sir Christèmas (Ritson Manuscript) are examples of carols that frequently utilized the word from the Middle Ages to the early modern era.  Consequently, the term also became associated with a carol or Christmas tune.

Unlike other English folk tunes, the melody is composed of a single melodic phrase that is played twice, followed by a refrain that is a variant of the same phrase.  The third of the scale marks the end of each of the three sentences.  According to Anne Gilchrist's 1915 article in the Journal of the Folk-Song Society, it had not been documented before Sandys' release.  She hypothesized that the tune might have originated as a treble part to another carol, "Hark, hark what news the angels bring," based on a set of church gallery parts found in Westmorland. She suggested that the treble part was passed down orally and was later remembered as the melody rather than a harmony. The New Oxford Book of Carols contains a speculative reconstruction of this previous form.

The English composer John Stainer originally published "The First Nowell" in his 1871 book Carols, New and Old. Today, it is typically played in a four-part hymn arrangement.  Victor Hely-Hutchinson's Carol Symphony contains variations on its theme.

The Vaughan Williams Memorial Library has audio recordings of various traditional renditions of the song that were made in Cornwall in the early 1930s by American folklorist James Madison Carpenter.

Good King, Wenceslas - On the Feast of St. Stephen in 1853, English hymn composer John Mason Neale composed the lyrics to the song "Good King Wenceslas" in remembrance of the Bohemian duke St. Wenceslaus from the tenth century. "Tempus adest floridum" (The time is approaching for flowering), a 13th-century Finnish spring hymn that had appeared in the 1582 collection Piae Cantiones, used as the accompaniment for the lyrics. In keeping with the custom of the Feast of St. Stephen (Boxing Day), the carol's tale honors kindness and altruism.

The song tells the story of Wenceslaus I, a 10th-century Duke of Bohemia, known for his piety and charity. The song is set on December 26th, the Feast of St. Stephen, a day that has historically been connected to deeds of kindness for the underprivileged. The tune was discovered in a collection of late medieval Finnish songs from the 16th century.

In spite of the severe weather, the carol portrays St. Wenceslas venturing out on a chilly winter's night to deliver food and firewood to a needy man. He is joined by his page, who struggles in the deep snow, but Wenceslas literally and figuratively guides him by following in his footsteps.

The Christmas carol "Good King Wenceslas" (Roud number 24754) narrates the tale of a monarch of Bohemia (present-day Czech Republic) in the eleventh century who braves the bitter cold to deliver alms to a needy peasant on the Feast of Stephen.  His page is about to give up the fight against the freezing weather during the voyage, but he is able to keep going by tracing the king's tracks through the heavy snow, step by step.

 Saint Wenceslaus I, Duke of Bohemia (907–935), is the subject of a legend.

Together with his music editor Thomas Helmore, English hymnwriter John Mason Neale composed the lyrics in 1853 to match the tune of the spring carol "Tempus adest floridum" ("The Blooming Time Is Here") from the 13th century, which they discovered in the Finnish song collection Piae Cantiones from 1582.  In the same year, Novello & Co. released Carols for Christmas-Tide, which featured the carol for the first time.

O Little Town of Bethlehem - Together with his music editor Thomas Helmore, English hymnwriter John Mason Neale composed the lyrics in 1853 to match the tune of the spring carol "Tempus adest floridum" ("The Blooming Time Is Here") from the 13th century, which they discovered in the Finnish song collection Piae Cantiones from 1582.  In the same year, Novello & Co. released Carols for Christmas-Tide, which featured the carol for the first time.

Brooks experienced a strong connection to the narrative of Christ's birth when he traveled to Bethlehem on Christmas Eve in 1865.  He later referred to the experience as "singing in my soul" as he rode across the meadows outside the village and went to services at the Church of the Nativity.

Three years later, Brooks felt moved to compose the poem for the youngsters of his Philadelphia congregation.  He wished to convey to them the depth of his experience.

For the next Christmas Sunday school session, he asked Lewis Redner, the organist at his church, to compose a piece of music based on his poetry. According to A Frank Voice, Redner battled to write the song's melody before having an epiphany the night before the show, which allowed the song to be performed as scheduled.

The carol was sung for the first time by several Sunday school teachers and children during the Christmas program. Although Brooks and Redner did not anticipate the hymn's longevity, its straightforward yet impactful message has made it a favorite Christmas carol for more than a century.

The carol "O Little Town of Bethlehem" is dedicated to Christmas.  The carol, which is based on a text by Phillips Brooks from 1868, is well-known on both sides of the Atlantic, but to different tunes: "Forest Green," a tune compiled by Ralph Vaughan Williams and originally included in the 1906 English Hymnal, is popular in the United Kingdom and Ireland, while "St. Louis," a song by Brooks' collaborator Lewis Redner, is popular in the United States and Canada.

The author of the text was Phillips Brooks (1835–1893), an Episcopal priest who served as rector of Trinity Church in Boston and the Church of the Holy Trinity in Philadelphia.  His 1865 visit to the town of Bethlehem in the Sanjak of Jerusalem served as inspiration.  He composed the poetry for his church three years later, and Lewis Redner (1831–1908), his organist, supplied the music.

The Sunday School Committee of the Diocese of Ohio organized the carol's text into five stanzas of eight lines, which were then published in The Sunday School Service and Hymn Book.  Most hymn and carol books remove the original fourth verse.  

We Wish You A Merry Christmas - A folk song from the 16th century, "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" probably originated in the West Country, when on Christmas Eve, carol singers would demand sweets like "figgy pudding" from affluent homes.  Arthur Warrell's 1935 arrangement, which helped the song become well recognized, was the first written score, albeit the composer is unknown.

Sung by individuals, particularly children, as they went door-to-door delivering Christmas presents, the song began as a secular folk carol. The request for "figgy pudding," a dish made with dried fruit that resembles contemporary Christmas pudding, is a crucial line. The song highlighted a vibrant exchange between the rich and the needy over the Christmas season and was a sly way for carol singers to request treats.

"We Wish You a Merry Christmas" was a popular way to end caroling sessions since, in contrast to many other traditional carols, it was comical and acted as a kind request for gifts.

It is still unclear who the original composer and writer were. After composer Arthur Warrell composed a choir arrangement and the Oxford University Press published it in 1935, the song gained widespread recognition. Warrell's arrangement helped the song's positive message reach throughout the world and cemented its place in popular culture.

Winter Wonderland - Inspired by the snow-covered Central Park in Honesdale, lyricist Richard B. Smith composed the lyrics to the song "Winter Wonderland" in 1934 when he was in a hospital recuperating from TB.  Richard Himber was the first to record the song, while Felix Bernard composed the music.  Despite not being a Christmas song at first, Guy Lombardo's rendition of the song became a huge hit in its first year of publication thanks to its romantic, winter-themed lyrics and the addition of a snowman named Parson Brown.

Richard B. Smith wrote the words to "Winter Wonderland" after being influenced by the icy surroundings of his hometown of Honesdale, Pennsylvania. When Smith wrote the song's lyrics, he was receiving treatment for tuberculosis at the West Mountain Sanitarium in Scranton. Smith's lyrics were set to a melody written by Felix Bernard.

Richard Himber and His Hotel Ritz-Carlton Orchestra recorded the song for the first time in 1934, adding extra time at the conclusion of another recording session. One of the greatest hits of 1934 was the orchestral version of "Winter Wonderland" by Guy Lombardo.

The song's central plot is around a couple who construct a snowman in a meadow and pose as Parson Brown, a clergyman.

The song gained popularity over the holiday season because of its winter mood and references to sleigh bells. With the lyrics of the snowman's phrase being read to hint at marriage or "tying the knot," "Winter Wonderland" became a pop standard over time, further connecting it to the Christmas season.

Felix Bernard and Richard Bernhard Smith wrote the song "Winter Wonderland" in 1934. In the Northern Hemisphere, it is frequently considered a Christmas song because of its seasonal subject. More than 200 different artists have covered it since Richard Himber recorded it first. The winter romance of a couple is the subject of its lyrics.

"Winter Wonderland" was changed "from a romantic winter interlude to a seasonal song about playing in the snow" by adding a "new children's lyric" in a later edition (issued in 1947).  The couple's vows in the last verse were replaced with lyrics about having fun, and the snowman mentioned in the song's bridge was renamed from Parson Brown to a circus clown.  By including a verse and chorus, singers such as Johnny Mathis linked the two versions.

According to reports, Smith, a native of Honesdale, Pennsylvania, was moved to pen the lyrics after witnessing the snow-covered Central Park in his hometown.  While receiving treatment for tuberculosis at the West Mountain Sanitarium in Scranton, he composed the song's lyrics.

The song was first recorded by RCA Victor in 1934.  With extra time to spare after Himber and his Hotel Ritz-Carlton Orchestra finished a different recording session, RCA Victor proposed arranging and recording "Winter Wonderland" with a few more members of its own orchestra, including Artie Shaw and other well-known studio musicians from New York City.

One of the greatest hits of 1934 would be Guy Lombardo's rendition from the same year.

The song was covered by Perry Como for his 1946 album, Perry Como Sings Merry Christmas Music.

Guy Lombardo and his Royal Canadians covered the song with the Andrews Sisters in 1946 as well.

The introduction is sung in between the first and second refrains of Johnny Mathis' rendition, which can be heard on his 1958 LP Merry Christmas.

The song's jazz arrangement was recorded by Ella Fitzgerald for her Verve album Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas in 1960.

Using his signature Wall of Sound production method, Phil Spector recorded a fast-paced version of the song for the A Christmas Gift for You from Phil Spector album in 1963.  The primary vocalist was Darlene Love.

The song was covered by Tony Bennett for his 1968 album Snowfall: The Tony Bennett Christmas Album.  In 2014, he recorded it once more in a duet with Lady Gaga.

The song was sung by Elvis Presley for his album Elvis Sings the Wonderful World of Christmas in 1971.

The song was covered by Ringo Starr for his 1999 album I Wanna Be Santa Claus.

As part of Amazon Music's Amazon Original Music series, Chlöe performed a cover of the song in 2023.  Her rendition of the song became the first to appear on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, peaking at number 87.

Laufey performed the song's cover on Spotify as part of their Spotify Singles Holiday series in 2023.  With the exception of the US, the cover became the song's highest-charting version in the Core Anglosphere.

Twelve Days of Christmas - Though a disproved myth connects it to Catholic catechism, the "Twelve Days of Christmas" was first published in England in 1780 as a children's book. It most likely started out as a memory game rather than a secret religious code. The lyrics are a cumulative song, with each verse building on the one before it. The tune was added by English composer Frederic Austin in 1909 and was based on a popular folk melody.

The lyrics were first recorded in 1780 as part of a compilation of stories and poems titled Mirth Without Mischief. 

Children probably played a cumulative game in which each player added a line to the song; the winner was the last person to accurately recite the full sequence. 

There was no music in the 1780 edition. Based on a traditional folk tune, English musician Frederic Austin composed the well-known melody we sing today in 1909.

There is a widely held belief that the song was used as a code for Catholics in England when they were persecuted for their faith.  This theory's proponents propose symbols such as the "partridge in a pear tree" to symbolize Christ and the "five golden rings" to represent the first five books of the Bible.  Because it is unsupported by evidence and has logical flaws, historians generally reject this idea.  Singing Christmas carols in public would not have been possible if Christians were as persecuted as the hypothesis implies. 

Beginning on Christmas Day and ending on Epiphany (January 6), the "twelve days of Christmas" are a time of festivity.  An order from the Council of Tours in 567 CE and old traditions both had an impact on this cultural legacy.

"The Twelve Days of Christmas" is a nursery rhyme and Christmas carol in English.  The words of this well-known cumulative song describe a string of ever-increasing presents that the speaker's "true love" gives them on each of the twelve days of Christmas (the twelve days that comprise the Christmas season, beginning with Christmas Day). With a Roud Folk Song Index number of 68, the carol was originally published in England in the late eighteenth century. The song has been linked to many distinct tunes, the most well-known of which is based on an arrangement of a popular folk tune by English composer Frederic Austin from 1909.

We Three Kings - The lyrics and music for the song "We Three Kings" were composed by American hymnodist and clergyman John Henry Hopkins Jr. for a Christmas pageant in 1857.  Originally named "Three Kings of Orient," the tune became the first widely recognized Christmas carol composed in America when it was included in Hopkins' book Carols, Hymns, and Songs in 1863.

This song is the most well-known work by Episcopal preacher, musician, and author John Henry Hopkins Jr. (1820–1891). He composed the words and melody for the carol in 1857. 

The song was written for a New York City Christmas pageant. 

Additionally, it was written for a trio of male singers, which was unusual for a hymnwriter at the time.  "The Three Kings of Orient," or "The Quest of the Magi," was the initial title, alluding to the biblical wise men mentioned in Matthew's Gospel. 

Hopkins initially told his loved ones and friends about the carol.  It appeared in his collection Carols, Hymns, and Songs in 1863.  "We Three Kings" was the first Christmas carol penned in America to become enormously popular.

John Henry Hopkins Jr. wrote the Christmas carol "We Three Kings" in 1857. It was originally titled "Three Kings of Orient" and is also referred to as "We Three Kings of Orient Are" or "The Quest of the Magi."  The carol was written for a Christmas pageant in New York City by Hopkins, who was the rector of Christ Episcopal Church in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, at the time.  It was the first American Christmas carol to achieve widespread popularity.

Angels We Have Heard on High - Before Roman Catholic bishop James Chadwick translated it into English in 1862, "Angels We Have Heard on High" was the traditional French carol "Les anges dans nos campagnes" from the 18th century.  Chadwick's paraphrased English lyrics were first published in the Crown of Jesus Music hymnal in 1862, but the song's structure and melody, known as "Gloria," were initially published in French in 1842.  The shepherds' happy meeting with the angels who proclaim the birth of Christ is recounted in the hymn.

The 18th-century French carol "Les anges dans nos campagnes" (The Angels in Our Countryside), which may have originated in the Languedoc region, was the song's original form.  

Eight stanzas of the original French language were published in the Choix de cantiques sur les airs nouveaux in 1842. The verse was translated and adapted into English for the hymnal Crown of Jesus Music in 1862 by English Catholic Bishop James Chadwick. The well-known "Gloria, in Excelsis Deo!" (Glory to God in the Highest!) chorus is featured in the "Gloria" song, which originally initially debuted with the French text.

The narrative of Jesus' birth, particularly the shepherds' encounter with the angels (Luke 2:6–20), serves as the inspiration for the song's lyrics. Shepherds and Bethlehem women sang back and forth before joining in on a chorus in the original French version, which was organized as a conversation. The joyful news of Christ's birth and the ensuing harmony and goodwill on Earth are conveyed in the song.

James Chadwick translated the English lyrics of the old French song "Les Anges dans nos campagnes" to create the Christmas carol "Angels We Have Heard on High" to the hymn music "Gloria."  The story of Jesus Christ's birth as told in the Gospel of Luke is the topic of the hymn, particularly the moment outside Bethlehem where shepherds come across a throng of angels singing and praising the infant.

Oh Come All Ye Faithful - The 18th century saw the creation of the Christmas carol "O Come All Ye Faithful," or "Adeste Fideles" in Latin, by composer John Francis Wade.  Wade is credited with writing the initial four Latin verses in the mid-1740s, however the exact provenance of the melody is up for question. His signature appears on the oldest known copy.  Samuel Webbe's earlier, less well-known translation from the 1760s was followed by Frederick Oakeley's popular English translation in 1841.

The provenance of the tune has been disputed, but the words and music are now usually attributed to John Francis Wade (1711–1786).  

"Adeste Fideles" is the title of the original Latin song.  Stonyhurst College is home to the oldest surviving manuscripts, which are signed by Wade and date to approximately 1743–1751. Due to religious persecution, Wade, a Roman Catholic, left England and relocated to France, where he sold and copied music. 

Samuel Webbe translated "Ye Faithful Approach Ye," the first recorded English translation, in the 1760s. Frederick Oakeley wrote "O Come, All Ye Faithful," the most popular English translation, in 1841.  Former Anglican minister Oakeley became a member of the "Oxford Movement" after converting to Roman Catholicism.

Other authors added the additional verses, bringing Wade's original four stanzas to a total of eight. 

The hymn's status as a traditional Christmas carol was cemented as it became widely known and translated into numerous languages.

The Christmas carol "O Come, All Ye Faithful" (also called "Adeste Fideles") has been credited to a number of writers, including King John IV of Portugal (1604–1656), John Francis Wade (1711–1786), John Reading (1645–1692), and unidentified Cistercian monks.  Wade released a book with the first printed copy.  Wade's 1751 manuscript is kept at Lancashire's Stonyhurst College.

Eight verses were added to the hymn's initial four, and these have been translated into several languages.  The song, which was translated into English as "O Come All Ye Faithful" by English Catholic priest Frederick Oakeley in 1841, gained popularity in English-speaking nations.

Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow! - During a scorching heatwave in Hollywood, California, in July 1945, lyricist Sammy Cahn and composer Jule Styne wrote the song "Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!" with the hope of cooler weather.  Despite lacking any overt Christmas overtones in its lyrics, it became a winter classic after being recorded by Vaughn Monroe and published the same year. 

One of the hottest days ever recorded in Hollywood, California, inspired the famous winter song.  In contrast to the oppressive heat they were feeling, Cahn and Styne wanted to write a song that would make people feel warm and cozy.  The song, which reflected a general yearning for calm and contentment, was written during the post-World War II recovery period.

Despite not mentioning Christmas in its lyrics, the song's winter theme made it synonymous with the holiday season and has since become a mainstay of Christmas music.  The song's 1959 recording by Dean Martin for his album A Winter Romance is regarded as one of its most cherished and timeless renditions.  "Let It Snow!" was originally written as a romantic song with a summertime feel, but it has endured for decades as a staple of the American Christmas songbook, with innumerable musicians recording it in a variety of genres.

The song "Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!" (or just "Let It Snow") was composed in July 1945 in Hollywood, California, amid a heat wave by songwriter Sammy Cahn and composer Jule Styne, who were envisioning colder weather.  That October, Vaughn Monroe recorded the song for the first time. It was published just after Thanksgiving and became popular by Christmas.

Other recordings made in the United States during the winter of 1945–46 were by Bob Crosby (ARA), Woody Herman (Columbia), Connee Boswell (Decca), and Danny O’Neil (Majestic).

No holiday is mentioned in the song.  The song's lyrics are about enjoying popcorn and a fireplace while spending time with a loved one during a snowstorm.  Love will keep the singer warm when he is forced to leave and is out in the cold.  Because of its winter theme, the song has become a global Christmas favorite and is frequently played on radio stations throughout the Christmas and holiday season.  Several artists have covered it on albums with a Christmas theme.

Jingle Bell Rock - Although American songwriters Joseph Carleton Beal and James Ross Boothe wrote "Jingle Bell Rock" in 1957, Bobby Helms' 1957 release is regarded as the first major rock and roll Christmas song. It features a well-known guitar riff by Hank Garland and a bridge (memorable lines) that Helms is said to have added.  The song has been the subject of authorship disputes; both Helms and Garland have disputed the version that was originally given to them and asserted that they made substantial contributions to the final, popular version.

The composition of "Jingle Bell Rock" is attributed to advertising and public relations specialists James Ross Boothe and Joseph Carleton Beal.  The song's rock and roll vibe made country singer Bobby Helms first hesitant to record it.  His company, Decca Records, persuaded him to record it.  In 1957, Helms' rendition of the song was made public. 

The unique guitar riff in the song was created by session guitarist Hank Garland, who combined rock and country influences.  "What a bright time/It's the right time/To rock the night away" is the bridge, which Bobby Helms claimed to have added.

Bobby Helms originally published the American Christmas song "Jingle Bell Rock" in 1957.  Since then, it has been played frequently during every Christmas season in the US and is widely regarded as Helms' signature song.  Helms and Hank Garland, the song's session guitarist, both denied that Joseph Carleton Beal and James Ross Boothe wrote "Jingle Bell Rock" (see Authorship issue section below).  Boothe was an American writer in the advertising industry, and Beal was a public relations specialist from Massachusetts who had lived on South Ocean Avenue in Atlantic City, New Jersey, for a long period.

It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Year - George Wyle and Eddie Pola wrote "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" in 1963 especially for Andy Williams' Christmas television program. That same year, it was included on his debut Christmas album.  The song became a holiday tradition after Wyle, a vocal director for Williams' show, penned it for the show's 1962–1963 Christmas special and Williams played it every year on his show.

Eddie Pola and George Wyle wrote the tune. The song was written by Wyle, the vocal director of The Andy Williams Show, and was featured on the show's 1962–1963 Christmas special. The song was recorded by Williams in 1963 for The Andy Williams Christmas Album, his debut Christmas album. Williams' performance of the song on his annual Christmas specials rapidly made it a holiday tradition. 

Now a timeless favorite, "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" is played during the Christmas season on radio stations and at malls. The song solidified Williams' moniker as "Mr. Christmas," and many other musicians have covered it.

Edward Pola and George Wyle wrote the well-known Christmas song "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" in 1963.  Pop singer Andy Williams recorded and released it that year as part of his debut Christmas album, The Andy Williams Christmas Album.  However, Williams' record label, Columbia Records, chose to push his cover of "White Christmas" as the official promo single from the album that year, rather than releasing the song as a promotional single.  Throughout the 2010s and 2020s, "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" has appeared on pop singles charts all around the world.

It peaked at number nine on the UK Singles Chart in 2021 and number five on the US Billboard Hot 100 singles chart in 2020.

Trivia About Filipino Christmas Traditions

1. Pinoy Parol

- this iconic Filipino Christmas lantern was originally made from bamboo strips carved into a five pointed star lantern and covered with papél de japón (Japanese paper) and illuminated by either a candle or a kalburo (carbide). This was originally crafted in 1908 by an artisan Francisco Estanislao and was originally used by townsfolk to light their paths during the ritual rooster dawn mass called misa de gallo or simbang gabi.


2. Filipino Christmas Carols

In the old Filipino Christmas traditions, some of the earliest Christmas songs were sung in Spanish. In the colonial Philippines, Spanish carols ("villacinco") were initially done during Mass but soon found their way to the streets due to its popularity. Much to the clergy’s disdain, some of the more-naughty carollers would insert less than devout lines and green jokes in the lyrics. Villancinco went out of style when Spanish rule ended, paving the way for carols done in English and the vernacular.

Before Christmas in our Hearts by Jose Mari Chan became a hit sensation, a Tagalog Christmas song is the most popular and almost a symbol of Pinoy Christmas carols. "Ang Pasko Ay Sumapit" is almost a household name during Christmas and is often the most used songs during carolling, parties and other Christmas related events. But did you know that this beautiful Christmas song was originally written and composed in Cebuano language. Entitled "Kasadya Ning Taknaa," it was written by Mariano Vestil and composed by Vicente Rubi in 1933.

The Tagalog version of the song was written by Levi Celerio and composed by Josefino Cenizal (who was also an actor) and was originally a marching song for the 1938 war film, Pugad ng Agila.

Did you know that the classical song "Payapang Daigdig" is actually a Filipino Christmas song equivalent to Father Josef Mohr and Franz Xaver Gruber's Silent Night. The song was composed by national artist Felipe Padilla de Leon and was first sung during the Japanese invasion of the Philippines in World War II. De Leon was said to have composed it after waking up seeing his most beloved city of Manila in ruins ravaged by the war. While it is not as lively and upbeat as the other Christmas songs, the somber theme of Payapang Daigdig was intended by de Leon to quell the Filipino public anxiety, its lyrics giving them hope in the face of uncertain times.


3. Simbang Gabi

This beautiful religious tradition is uniquely Filipino as the Philippines and the Filipino people are the only ones in the world to practice this nine-day early dawn mass. This Christmas tradition was first started in 1669 as a practical compromise for farmers, who began work before sunrise to avoid the noonday heat out in the fields. Pope Sixtus V ordered that Mass be heard before sunrise since it was the harvest season, and the farmers needed to be in the fields right after the celebration.

Since it started in 1669, did you know that Simbang Gabi was once banned in the Philippines from 1680 to 1689 due to a Vatican decree implemented by Manila Archbishop Felipe Pardo. It was also implemented in Spain, the Azores and Mexico and the reason for this decree roots from the churchgoers and choirs habit of singing Christmas songs in their native language. During those times, singing in vernacular was only allowed during the entrance and recessional songs. The decree deemed this practice as perverse and ordered the suppression of the services. However, following the death of Pardo, the clergymen except the Discalced Franciscans resumed the practice.



4. Unusual Filipino Christmas Celebrations

One Barangay in Iloilo celebrates Christmas in a cemetery. The dead can join Christmas fun as far as the folks in Barangay Tanza in Iloilo City is concerned. The barangay or the community which houses a cemetery decorate the area with lots of Christmas symbols and other decorations like lanterns, Christmas trees, light and nativity scene and the idea was conceptualized in December 2014. The graveyard workers who initiated the event originally only wanted a Christmas party but were later convinced to make it a wider aspect and hold a Christmas decoration contest to make their planned gatherings even livelier. According to the caretakers, the celebration should also include not only the living but also the dead. Visitors to the cemetery welcome the sight with some of them even staying inside the cemetery late at night to enjoy the view.


5. Christmas Cards

The first Christmas cards in the Philippines were made by Manuel Rodriguez Sr., widely regarded as the Father of Contemporary Printmaking in the Philippines. He produced what could be described as the first truly Filipino themed Christmas cards in the 1950s printed a set containing pictures of the simbang gabi, Filipino  churchgoers and carolers.


6. Christmas Tree

The idea of decorating a tree for Christmas first came to the Philippines much earlier than 20th century. Jose Rizal first mentioned it in its 1886 drawing of a Christmas tree, his interpretation of Hans Christian Andersen's "Little Fir Tree".

In a letter in Berlin for his eldest sister, he said:

“(The Christmas tree) is decorated with tinsel, paper, lights, dolls, candy, fruits, dainties, etc., and at night time, it is shown to the children, and around this tree the family celebrates Christmas.”



Source: 

Filipiknow.net 


Photo Source: 

Rappler 
Philippine Star 
Entrepreneur Philippines

Holiday Songs Origin

Some of the popular Christmas carols we sing has origins only a few of us know. Here are some of the popular Holiday songs and Christmas carols and its origin in language, country and other derivations and interesting stories behind it.


Jingle Bells - Language: English - USA  - written by James L. Pierpont, published under the title One Horse, Open Sleigh and first performed in 1857. Originally intended during Thanksgiving Day but eventually popular during Christmas

Silent Night - Language: German - Austria - originally titled Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht. The song was written by a priest Fr. Josef Mohr in 1816 and composed by Franz Gruber and was first performed on Christmas eve of 1818 at the St Nicholas parish church in Oberndorf, Austria.

Have Yourself A Merry Christmas - Language: English - USA - debuted in the 1944 classic film, Meet Me In St. Louis

Joyeux Noel - Language: French - France

Feliz Navidad - Language: Spanish - Puerto Rico - written in 1970 by Puerto Rican singer and songwriter Jose Feliciano

Auld Lang Syne  - Language: English - Scotland - it is a poem written by Scottish poet Robert Burns and set to the tune of a traditional folk song (Roud # 6294). It is well known in many countries, especially in the English-speaking world, its traditional use being to bid farewell to the old year at the stroke of midnight.

Santa Claus Is Coming To Town - Language: English -  USA - writted by James Gillespie and was first performed on American singer Eddie Cantor's radio show in 1934. However for all its mirth, its inspiration came from a place of grief. Initially, he rejected the job, feeling too overcome with grief to consider penning a playful holiday ditty. But a subway ride recollecting his childhood with his brother and his mother's warnings that Santa was watching changed his mind. He had the lyrics in 15 minutes, then called in composer John Coots to make up the music that would become a big hit within 24 hours of its debut. 

Hark! The Herald Angel Sing - Language: English - England - written by Charles Wesley and first appeared in the collection Hymns and Sacred Poems in 1739. The melody used in the lyrics was that of Felix Mendelssohn

Deck The Halls - Language: English - Wales - The lyrics were written by the Scottish musician Thomas Oliphant around 1862 while its melody is Welsh in origin which dates back to the sixteenth century and belongs to a winter carol, "Nos Galan".

Petit Papa Noel  - Language: French - France - it is a 1946 song recorded by French singer Tino Rossi and written by Raymond Vincy and Henri Martinet, this Christmas song was originally performed by Rossi in Richard Pottier's film Destins.

Oh Come, All Ye Faithful - Language: Latin - Various Countries - originally written in Latin as Adeles Fideles, the song has been attributed to various authors including John Francis Wade (1711–1786), John Reading (1645–1692) and King John IV of Portugal (1604–1656), with the earliest manuscript of the hymn bearing his name, located in the library of the Ducal Palace of Vila Viçosa.

Little Drummer Boy - originally known as "Carol of the Drum", the song was written by the American classical music composer and teacher Katherine Kennicott Davis in 1941. First recorded in 1951 by the Trapp Family Singers, the song was further popularized by a 1958 recording by the Harry Simeone Chorale; the Simeone version was re-released successfully for several years and the song has been recorded many times since.

White Christmas - Language: English - USA - debuted in the 1940 black and white film, Holiday Inn

O Christmas Tree - Language: German - Germany - originally named O Tanenbaum, the song's earliest version dates back to the 16th century, when Melchior Franck wrote a folk song about the tradition of bringing a small fir tree into one's home to decorate and sit beside the seasonal nativity scene. This decorating tradition and its celebratory song moved from Germany to the U.S. along with its emigrants. The modern lyrics were written in 1824, by the Leipzig organist, teacher and composer Ernst Anschütz.

We Three Kings - Language: English - USA -  is a Christmas carol that was written by John Henry Hopkins, Jr. in 1857. At the time of composing the carol, Hopkins served as the rector of Christ Episcopal Church in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, and he wrote the carol for a Christmas pageant in New York City. Many versions of this song have been composed and it remains a popular Christmas carol.




Source:

Wikipedia
The Origins of 10 Popular Christmas Carols, MentalFloss.com - http://mentalfloss.com/article/60596/origins-10-popular-christmas-carols
https://gbtimes.com/understand-words-christmas-carols

12 Days Of Christmas Song Symbols, Origins and Stories

The song "Twelve Days of Christmas" is a popular Christmas song all around the world. According to the Wikipedia, it is an English Christmas carol that enumerates in the manner of a cumulative song a series of increasingly grand gifts given on each of the twelve days of Christmas (to which the twelve days represents the Christmas season beginning with Christmas Day). It was published in England in 1780 without music as a chant or rhyme and thought to be French in origin. It has so many versions but the standard tune associated with it and is popular today is derived from a 1909 arrangement of a traditional folk melody by English composer Frederic Austin, who first introduced the now familiar prolongation of the verse "five gold ring."

Many people don't know but there are hidden meanings and symbolisms on these songs than merely a Christmas carols and gifts of love. Its symbolisms enriches and gives color to the meaning of Christmas and our deep connection to Christ. Each of the elements on each day as well has its own origins.

In 1979, according to a Canadian hymnologist, Hugh D. McKellar, who published an article, "How to Decode the Twelve Days of Christmas", he suggested that someone wrote "The Twelve Days of Christmas" as a kind of secret catechism that could be sung in public without the risk of persecution as pious Roman Catholics in England were not allowed to practice their faith openly from 1558 - 1829. These are the song's grand gifts on each day of Christmas and their hidden meaning is known only to members of the church. Each supposed "grand gift" increasing in number each day in the carol is a code word for a religious reality. 

Religious Symbols

A Partridge in a Pear Tree is Jesus Christ
Two Turtle Doves represent the Old and New Testaments
Three French Hens stand for Faith, Hope and Charity (theological virtues) or the Gifts of the Magi (Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh)
Four Colly Birds are the Four Gospels
Five Gold Rings recall the Torah (law) or the First Five Books of the Old Testament

Six Geese A-Laying stands for the Six Days of Creation
Seven Swans A-Swimming represents the Sevenfold Gifts of the Spirit

Eight Maids A-Milking are the Eight Beatitudes
Nine Ladies Dancing are the Nine Fruits of the Spirit
Ten Lords A-Leaping are the Ten Commandments
Eleven Pipers Piping stands for the Eleven Faithful Disciples
Twelve Drummers Drumming symbolizes the 12 points of belief in the Apostles Creed

The Twelve Days of Christmas first appeared in a children's book Mirth Without Mischief which appears to be a memory and forfeit game in England in 1780 (though some say the song itself is like a memory game). The object of the game is to have the first player start out reciting the first verse, with each of the following players repeating the previous verse and then adding one. If a player missed a verse or made some kind of error, then he/she would have to give a kiss or some kind of food to someone else.  Though the first published version of the song was in England there are three older versions of the song in French and another version from Scotland therefore, some people argue that the origins of the song are highly debatable with the song not necessarily in English but French.

As for the twelve grand gifts, there are some symbolism and origins of how they came to be celebrated as presents in a song.

Origins and Stories

A Partridge In A Pear Tree

One tradition for the Twelfth Night is to go around wassailing fruit trees as a kind of fertility rite. The way to do it varies for centuries. By the 18th century (when the song was created and published) wassailing was done by pouring cider, honey, spices, and pulp from a burst baked apple (all combined and mixed in a bowl) around the trees. The term "wassail" was derived from the phrase waes hael which means "be whole" or in other words be in good health.

Another folklore tells that a young maiden is supposed to walk backward around a pear tree three times in the morning of Christmas day where she will gaze into the branches and then she will see the image of her future husband.

Fruits represent fertility and sexuality through centuries. Apples represent the female while the pear is supposed to represent the male. The male partridge is also well known for being a lusty suitor, very fertile, and producing a lot of offspring therefore, the "partridge in a pear tree" has a sexual connotation.

In England, the red-legged partridge was commonly known to sit in pear trees but this bird was not introduced to England from France until the late 1770s. Since the verse was earlier than that time, many people believed that the song originated from France.



Two Turtle Doves

Doves for centuries have symbolized both love and fertility.  Astarte, the Phoenician goddess of love, is said to have been hatched on the banks of the Euphrates River from an egg that was warmed by two doves.  Venus, the Roman goddess of love and beauty, was born of water, where doves are often depicted drinking. Hence, this is why they are often seen as fountain art.  Christianity then associated doves as a symbol of the Holy Spirit.

Doves are believed to mate for life.  Today, they symbolize marital devotion, faithfulness, and love forever.



Three French Hens

Some believe that French hens prove that this song really originated in France. How? The Latin name for France was Gaul, which comes from the Latin word Gallia which is close to another Roman word for rooster.

In Christian religion, it was believed that a cock crowed when Christ was born as a sign that "the light of the world" has arrived. The reason for which a rooster on a Christian tomb symbolizes resurrection.

During the 18th century, large, exotic fowl from the Orient were brought back to England. These birds mated with the descendants of the Roman-breed chickens.  It is believed that the "three French hens" in the song represent a new breed. White chickens are believed to bring good luck.  And, hens are believed to symbolize motherly devotion.



Four Calling (Colly) Birds

We have been singing calling birds all this time but in reality, it's colly birds. A colly bird is a European black bird.  Colly means black. Therefore, a dark, black bird looked like black coal and was called a "collie" or "Colly Bird."   

It means that the song is saying four crows but who likes crows for Christmas? These people did back in the old times. During the medieval days, blackbird was considered a delicacy. In the children's song "Sing a Song of Sixpence" there are 24 blackbirds baked in a pie.  Pies seemed to be a real gourmet food in the peak of The Twelfth Night's days and were often a sign of status and competition among the wealthy.  Dining during this time was a form of entertainment, with food presentations, fireworks, and surprises coming out of them. 

But, the grandest pie of all was said to be in the year 1770 for Sir Henry Grey at a Twelfth Night celebration in London.  This pie is said to be 9 feet in circumference.  The filling was composed of two bushels of flour, two woodcocks, two turkeys, two rabbits, two ox tongues, four geese, four ducks, four partridges, six pigeons, seven blackbirds and twenty lbs. of butter!  The pie weighed 168 lbs. and was wheeled into the dining room. 



Five Golden Rings

Actually, it is not the gold rings given on the fifth day but it is just a reference to birds (observe the pattern in the song) and the 5 golden rings are said to represent the gold rings on a pheasant's neck but why pheasant?

It all begins with the legend of Jason and the Argonauts back in 750 B.C. when they sailed from Thessaly, Greece in search of the "Golden Fleece".  During this epic journey, they landed in Phalis, acquiring not only the sorceress, Medea but also a lot of golden birds.  The Greek word phasianornis means "bird of Phasis."  It is believed that this species of ring-necked pheasant is from the sub-species of the infamous "Golden Fleece."  Soon, eating pheasant was only for the very rich and royal, often becoming the high-point of the feast.  Many times, it was customary to swear an oath upon it before eating.



Six Geese A-Laying

Going back to Neolithic times, the goose is one of the oldest domesticated birds.  It's also been the topic of a lot of folklore.

Because of their migration habits, they were often considered to be a symbol of the solar year and also fertility. Ancient Egyptians believed that a mummy's soul rose up in the form of a goose with a human head.  The Roman goddess, Juno (who rules heaven and marriages), considered the goose sacred. Why? In 387 B.C. the geese in her temple cackled and honked, warning the Romans that barbarians were close.  Ever since then, the geese have been honored for their protective services.   Medieval seafarers had a strange tale about the origin of the goose.  It seems that on the hull of their ships grew this long, goose-shaped barnacle.  Coincidentally, there was also an Arctic goose that migrated around England. Since this goose and the barnacle looked a lot alike, the sailors said that the goose originated from the barnacle and in some tales a seaside tree.

But why geese are this important? It is because the goose came from a tree it was suddenly all right to eat because it was then considered a 'fruit' and not the 'flesh of animals.'  By the 18th century, the goose was the customary Christmas dinner.  The boar had been hunted to extinction, so it was no longer served. But, many homes served a string of sausages around the goose as a reminder of the boar in days past.



Seven Swans A-Swimming

Because many waterfowl could both fly and swim, the ancients had a real fascination with them.  Many believed that these animals had a connection between the natural and supernatural worlds.   The migrations of some birds (disappearing when days grew short and coming when they grew longer) also added to their beliefs.   Egypt Linked swans with immortality, just like they did the geese.   The Greek priests, who worship Demeter, the goddess of agriculture, are believed to be descended from swans.  Old Celtic and British myths believe that lost loved ones turn into swans, with gold or silver chains on their necks to symbolize their enchantment.  The transformation is believed to take place during their Samhain festival, where the gates of the other worlds open up and souls are free to pass.
King Edward of England, in 1304 took his vows of knighthood over two white swans decorated with gold nets and crowns.  Since then, the swans became associated with royalty; and, having swans was strictly exclusive to the monarchy.  In Britain today, the swan is still considered a symbol of royalty.

In 1697 black swans were discovered in Australia.  This caused a great stir in Europe because up until then, it was believed that swans were supposed to be white. At least, they were all white in Europe!



Eight Maids A-Milking

This refers to the many food products that are made of milk.  In the old days, due to poor refrigeration, a person didn't really drink fresh milk.  Milk quickly would sour and/or separate.  But, when it was in the form of sweet milk, sour cream, butter, and/or cheese, then milk became very important!

Custard was one of the favorite foods of the Middle Ages. Another was boiling (hulled) wheat in milk, with egg yolks and some saffron.  Its closest resemblance today would be like oatmeal?  Cottage cheese was another popular food. But, actual cheese was the prize!  Both in England and France, cheese provided food during the long winters.  

In 18th century England, they played a game on Christmas night called "Yawning for the Chesire Cheese."  OK, now we all know that yawning is addictive.  It's really hard to not yawn when you see someone yawn. Well, back in those days they had yawning contests.  And, the person who made the widest and longest yawn --- and who produced the greatest yawns in return --- won the cheese!

Now we get to the term "come a-milking."  In the 18th century, when a maiden was asked to "go a-milking" it had one of two meanings.  Either it was a proposal of marriage; or, it was a rather risquè invitation for intimacy.  I'm not sure how a girl knew which intention the man meant.



Nine Ladies Dancing

Along the same lines as the bagpipes previously, dancing was also connected to the music. As I said above, the dances were known as caroles. During the Middle Ages, the Carole was very popular court entertainment. But, before this time, dancing was considered a sin of the flesh and was connected with the devil. Since most dances were done in circles, the direction in which one danced also mattered. Slowly, dancing got accepted --- but only if done in the correct direction! The Christian church considered dancing to the left = bad but dancing to the right = good. However, many non-Christian people danced from left to right because they were worshipping the sun (round) as a way of representing the sun's movement from east to west. The sun was a priority in many dances. They didn't do it as a form of evil. In some cases, the dances were done in a circle around a fire. The fire represented the sun's light, warmth, and purifying qualities. Eventually, the Christian church failed in banning dancing, especially in circles going left. And, by the 15th century, the word for carole was replaced with the word branle, because dancing was then associated with songs. Eventually, the songs turned into stories, like those about Christmas. This is how the term Christmas Carols came about. As the years went on, the round dance, grew into many different types of dances.



Ten Lords A-Leaping

Leaping dances were strictly for men. These dances were for the purpose of fertility as well as for war. These physically exerting dances were meant to rile up the men for battle to create some kind of mental exhilaration. 

The Roman god of vegetation and war was Mars.  The Roman priests of their Salii ritual would leap as high as they could in the air in hopes of inducing the corn to grow. It was believed that the height of their leap would be the height of the corn. Swords were a part of their costume.  

In Britain, the lords a-leaping are assumed to be Morris dancers, highly costumed ceremonial folk, who performed between the courses of a Christmas feast.  One form of Morris dancing included swords (just like the Salii ritual mentioned above) also.  In this dance, twelve men in two teams performed intricate patterns, ending with the swords being braided together to form a Lock or Nut above the Lord of Misrule (during the Twelfth Night Celebration).  In other Morris dancing, instead of swords, antlers were worn.

By the end of the 18th century, this style of dance was no longer of interest to the upper classes for entertainment.  It was being performed at festivals or fairs only.

Some believe that the lords a-leaping did a dance called the gavotte for the Twelfth Night celebrations because it was accompanied by a drum and bagpipe.  The gavotte lasted until the end of the 18th century and then faded away in popularity.



Eleven Pipers Piping

Sitting around, watching your sheep was a pretty boring job. So, shepherds often would play their pipes.  It is believed that on the night Jesus was born, shepherds were playing.  It's also rumored that while Rome burned, Nero wasn't fiddling. Instead, he was playing bagpipes!  

By the 9th century, the bagpipe was the instrument for all medieval celebrations.  This music had only one single line of melody, which suited the bagpipe quite nicely, especially for dances called caroles.

Drones, which could produce only a single tone were added to the bagpipes in the 13th century.  The drone is what creates that background hum that you hear.  As the demand for more harmony, multi-notes, and melodies grew, the bagpipes were losing their popularity and being replaced by other musical instruments.  But, it never died out in Scotland!  In the 16th century, the bagpipe became an instrument associated with soldiers and fighting.  It had a real stirring effect on the men!  Because of this, the English banned the bagpipe in Ireland.

In France, the bagpipe was popular as an accompaniment for dance.  In the 17th century, a new kind of bagpipe was created called the musette.  These were driven by bellows (rather than mouthblown), and the sound was less shrill. The French nobility also had their musettes crafted not just as musical instruments, but as works of art, with ivory chanter and bag covers made of embroidered silk, with tassels and fringes.  Many French musicians often played the musette as entertainment for Twelfth Night celebrations.



Twelve Drummers Drumming

In the early days of England, they had town watchmen, known as waits, who went around patrolling the streets and calling out the hours of the night. By the 18th century, they got a little more skilled and turned into town musicians. During Christmastime, these town musicians were nicely rewarded.  They sang day and night, often serenading sleepers from midnight to dawn.

But, odd as this seems, Europe wasn't really into drums.  They actually first got introduced to them during the Crusades when they brought them back to Europe as their spoils from the Holy Land.  These drums were basically Egyptian and Sumerian.  Soon, the beat of a drum became associated with warfare.  And, a symbol of marching into battle.

The drum also became associated with the trumpet, to announce the arrival of each course during banquets.  A skilled musician could not only play the pipes but also the tabor (a small drum).  This was known as the whittle and dub.




Source:

Twelve Days of Christmas Wikipedia
The Twelve Days of Christmas Christmas Carol History, Meaning & Symbol, Brownielocks & The 3 Bears - https://www.brownielocks.com/twelvedaysofchristmas.html
The Hidden Meaning Behind The 12 Days Of ChristmasThis Gives A Whole New Meaning To The Song - http://www.raskys.com/christmas38.html

Christmas Tradition Around The World

Christmas in Africa

Preparation for Christmas in the Congo begins when some group is designated to prepare the annual Christmas pageant.

Christmas day begins with groups of carolers walking to and fro through the village, along the roadway, by the houses of the missionaries, singing the lovely carols known the world around. Often people may be awakened by a group of carolers beginning to converge on the house of worship. They return home to make final preparation as to the clothes one must wear and also as to his offering for the Christmas service.

The most important part of their Christmas worship service is the love offering, this is the gift in honor of Jesus. Then at about 8 or 9 o'clock everyone makes their way to the celebration of the birthday of Jesus.

Everyone who attends the service goes forward to lay down their gift upon the raised platform near the Communion table. Not one person will attend the service without giving a gift.

Now people have Christmas dinners after the service, preparing tables out in front of their home and inviting many of their intimate friends to share.

Christmas in South Africa is a summer holiday. In December, the southern summer brings glorious days of sunshine that carry an irresistible invitation to the beaches, the rivers, and the shaded mountain slopes. Then the South African holiday season reaches its height. Schools are closed, and camping is the order of the day. In South Africa there is no snow, but it has many flowers, many beautiful varieties of cultivated and wild flowers being in their full pride.

In the cities and towns carolers make their rounds on Christmas Eve. Church services are held on Christmas morning. Christmas Eve celebrations in larger centers include "Carols by Candlelight" and special screen and floor shows.

Homes are decorated with pine branches, and all have the decorated Christmas fir in a corner, with presents for the children around. At bedtime on Christmas Eve, children may also hang up their stockings for presents from Father Christmas.

Many South Africans have a Christmas dinner in the open-air lunch. For many more, it is the traditional dinner of either turkey, roast beef, mince pies, or suckling pig, yellow rice with raisins, vegetables, and plum pudding, crackers, paper hats, and all. In the afternoon, families go out into the country and usually there are games or bathing in the warm sunshine, and then home in the cool of the evening. Boxing Day is also a proclaimed public holiday usually spent in the open air. It falls on December 26 and is a day of real relaxation.

In Ghana, on Africa's west coast, most churches herald the coming of Christmas by decorating the church and homes beginning with the first week in Advent, four weeks before Christmas. This season happens to coincide with the cocoa harvest, so it is a time of wealth. Everyone returns home from wherever they might be such as farms or mines.

On the eve of Christmas, children march up and down the streets singing Christmas Carols and shouting "Christ is coming, Christ is coming! He is near!" in their language. In the evening, people flock to churches which have been decorated with Christmas evergreens or palm trees massed with candles. Hymns are sung and Nativity plays are presented.

On Christmas Day, children and older people, representing the angels in the fields outside Bethlehem, go from house to house singing. Another church service is held where they dress in their native attire or Western costumes. Later on there is a feast of rice and yam paste called fufu with stew or okra soup, porridge and meats. Families eat together or with close neighbors, and presents are given.

On the west coast of Africa, in Liberia, most homes have an oil palm for a Christmas tree, which is decorated with bells. On Christmas morning, people are woken up by carols. Presents such as cotton cloth, soap, sweets, pencils, and books are exchanged. Also in the morning a church service is held in which the Christmas scene is enacted and hymns and carols are sung. Dinner is eaten outdoors with everyone sitting in a circle to share the meal of rice, beef and biscuits. Games are played in the afternoon, and at night fireworks light up the sky.

Christmas in United States of America

Santa Claus was born in US in the 1860's he was named this as he had a white beard and a belly, so he was named Santa Claus as this was the Dutch word for St Nicholas, Sintaklaas. Although the Dutch had bought him with them in the 17th century, he did not become an important person at Christmas until the Novelist Washington Irving put him in a novel that he wrote in 1809. This first Santa Claus was still known as St. Nicholas, he did smoke a pipe, and fly around in a wagon without any reindeer, but he did not have his red suit or live at the North Pole, he did however bring presents to children every year.

In 1863 He was given the name Santa Claus and bore the red suit, pipe, and his reindeer and sleigh.

Now Christmas celebrations vary greatly between regions of the United States, because of the variety of nationalities which have settled in it.

In Pennsylvania, the Moravians build a landscape, called a putz - under the Christmas tree, while in the same state the Germans are given gifts by Belsnickle, who taps them with his switch if they have misbehaved.

Early European settlers brought many traditions to the United States. Many settled in the early days in the South, these settlers would send Christmas greetings to their distant neighbors by shooting firearms and letting off fireworks. In Hawaii this practice is still in use as under the sunny skies, Santa Claus arrives by boat and Christmas dinner is eaten outdoors.

In Alaska, a star on a pole is taken from door to door, followed by Herod's Men, who try to capture the star. Colonial doorways are often decorated with pineapple, a symbol of hospitality.

In Alaska, boys and girls with lanterns on poles carry a large figure of a star from door to door. They sing carols and are invited in for supper.

In Washington D.C., a huge, spectacular tree is lit ceremoniously when the President presses a button and turns on the tree's lights.

In Boston, carol singing festivities are famous. The singers are accompanied by hand bells.

In New Orleans, a huge ox is paraded around the streets decorated with holly and with ribbons tied to its horns.

In Arizona, the Mexican ritual called Las Posadas is kept up. This is a ritual procession and play representing the search of Mary and Joseph for a room at the inn. Families play the parts and visit each other's houses enacting and re-enacting the drama and, at the same time, having a look at each family's crib.

In Hawaii, Christmas starts with the coming of the Christmas Tree Ship, which is a ship bringing a great load of Christmas fare. Santa Claus also arrives by boat.

In California, Santa Claus sweeps in on a surf board.

In America the traditional Christmas dinner is roast turkey with vegetables and sauces. For dessert it is rich, fruity Christmas pudding with brandy sauce. Mince pies, pastry cases filled with a mixture of chopped dried fruit.

The majority of Americans celebrate Christmas with the exchange of gifts and greetings and with family visits. For many, the day begins on Christmas Eve with the Midnight Mass. At Christmas it snows in many states, so dinner is usually eaten indoors. Dinner usually is roast turkey, goose, duck or ham served with cranberry sauce, then plum pudding or pumpkin pie followed by nuts and fruit.

American homes are decorated with holly, mistletoe and branches of trees, most have a Christmas tree hung with electric lights, tinsel, baubles, and strings of popcorn and candy canes.

In Colorado, an enormous star is placed on the mountain, it can be seen for many kilometers around, while in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a star is lit in early December.

Polish Americans on Christmas Eve spread hay on their kitchen floor and under the tablecloth to remind them of a stable and a manger. When they make up the table for dinner two extra places are set up for Mary and the Christ Child in case they should knock at the door to ask for shelter.

In Philadelphia, a procession called a mummers parade runs for a whole day with bands, dancers and people in fancy dress.

There are two homes for Santa Claus in the United States one is in Torrington, Connecticut, where Santa and his helpers give out presents. The other home is in Wilmington, New York, where a village for Santa and his reindeer is located.

In Arizona they follow the Mexican traditions called Las Posadas. Families play out the parts of Mary and Joseph searching for somewhere to stay. They form a procession and visit their friends' and neighbors' homes where they admire each family's Nativity crib. In parts of New Mexico, people place lighted candles in paper bags filled with sand on streets and rooftops to light the way for the Christ Child.

Christmas in Argentina

People go to the church with family, then come back to a family gathering. At midnight after eating they toast, then the adults' dance while younger people go out to see the fireworks. After this they go to sleep, but not before they open the presents under the Christmas tree. That day is very special for because they are Christian and celebrate Jesus' birth on the 24th of December.

The dinner food is pork, turkey, and a great variety of meals. Then the table is covered with sweet things, cider, beer, and juice for consuming while waiting for the time of the toast. After the toast all the family chat, others play.

Houses are decorated with red and white garlands; on the door Father Christmas's Boots are placed. The Christmas tree is decorated with colored lights, ornaments and Father Christmas placed on top of it. Mothers make different kinds of meals such as roasted turkey, roasted pork, stuffed tomatoes, mince pies, Christmas's bread and puddings. The toast: drink prepared with different kinds of fruit which is cut into pieces, then it is mixed with juice and cider.

Christmas in Australia

Christmas in Australia is often very hot. Whereas the northern hemisphere is in the middle of winter, Australians are baking in summer heat. It is not unusual to have Christmas Day well into the mid 30 degrees Celsius, or near 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

A traditional meal includes a turkey dinner, with ham, and pork. A flaming Christmas plum pudding is added for dessert. In the Australian gold rushes, Christmas puddings often contained a gold nugget. Today a small favor is baked inside. Whoever finds this knows s/he will enjoy good luck. Another treat is Mince Pies.

Some Australians and particularly tourists often have their Christmas dinner at midday on a local beach, Bondi Beach in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs attracts thousands of people on Christmas Day. Other families enjoy their day by having a picnic. If they are at home, the day is punctuated by swimming in a pool, playing Cricket out the backyard, and other outdoor activities.

The warm weather allows Australians to enjoy a tradition which commenced in 1937. Carols by Candlelight is held every year on Christmas Eve, where tens of thousands of people gather in the city of Melbourne to sing their favorite Christmas songs. The evening is lit by as many candles singing under a clean cut night sky. The sky with its Southern Cross stars is like a mirror. Sydney and the other capital cities also enjoy Carols in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

Australians surround themselves with Christmas Bush, a native plant which has little red flowered leaves.

Christmas shopping is often done in shorts and t-shirts. At many beaches Santa Claus arrives on a surfboard, or even on a surf lifesaving boat.

Australia's worst Christmas was in 1974, when Cyclone Tracy devastated Darwin in the Northern Territory. More than 60 people were killed.

Christmas in Belgium

In Belgium there are two Santa Claus figures. There is St. Niklaas and Pere Noel.

Pere Noel visits those who speak the Walloon language, in fact he visits them twice. The first time is on the December 4th he does this so he can find out which children have been good and which children have been bad. If a child is good he returns on December 6th with the presents the good children deserve if they were bad they are left twigs. The good children usually received candy and toys. With the bad children he leaves the twigs inside their shoes or in small baskets that are left just inside the doorway.

Pere Noel visits those who speak French. He visits with his companion Pere Fouettard and asks about whether the children have been good or bad. If they have been good they receive chocolates and candies if they have been bad they are more likely to receive a handful of sticks.

Christmas for both gift-givers is on December 6th, the feast of St Nicholas, it is a religious occasion and is observed with services in churches and quiet family gatherings. Special cakes are baked and served during the holiday season and are a treat for children and adults.

The other part is called "Flemish" where they are Dutch speaking. They are visited by St Niklaas, they are in the North half of the country.

St-Nicholas doesn't have anything to do with Christmas. It's His Birthday on December 6th, and then he visits all children to bring them presents.

And then there is Christmas, December 25. The day Jesus Christ was born. The last years the American tradition around Christmas is coming over here. By movies and storybooks.

Now Children get gifts under the Christmas tree also. But this isn't the same everywhere. But it mostly depends on the parents. At some family, they buy gifts for each other and put them under the tree. There's no Santa to bring them. In others, mostly when there are still li'l children it's Santa who brings the gifts and puts them under the tree.

That can be on Christmas Eve, but sometimes in the weeks before Christmas. Gifts are opened on the evening before Christmas, after a Christmas dinner, or the midnight mass, or on Christmas morning.

Christmas in China

The Christian children of China decorate trees with colorful ornaments. These ornaments are made from paper in the shapes of flowers, chains and lanterns. They also hang muslin stockings hoping that Christmas Old Man will fill them with gifts and treats.

The Chinese Christmas trees are called "Trees of Light." Santa Claus is called Dun Che Lao Ren which means "Christmas Old Man.".

The non-Christian Chinese call this season the Spring Festival and celebrate with many festivities that include delicious meals and pay respects to their ancestors. The children are the main focus of these celebrations, they receive new clothes and toys, eat delectable food and watch firecrackers displays.

Christmas in Japan

Only 1 per cent of Japanese people believe in Christ. Even so, most Japanese people decorate their stores and homes with evergreens during Christmas.

They enjoy giving each other gifts, and this is the part they celebrate.

They have a Buddhist monk called Hotei-osho who acts like Santa Claus. He brings presents to each house and leaves them for the children. Some think he has eyes in the back of his head, so children try to behave like he is nearby.

Among the Christian Japanese Christmas is not a day for the family. They do not have turkey or plum pudding, rather than that the day is spent doing nice things for others especially those who are sick in hospitals.

Christmas for those in Sunday schools is the happiest day of the year. On Christmas Eve or Christmas night, the children put on programs that last for hours, they sing, they recite and they put on a drama of the day Jesus was born in Bethlehem.

Most children may not like Hotei-osho so they may receive their presents from Santa who goes around with a red-nosed reindeer.

Christmas in Italy

The Christmas season in Italy goes for three weeks, starting 8 days before Christmas known as the Novena. During this period, children go from house to house reciting Christmas poems and singing.

In some parts shepherds bring musical instruments into the villages, play and sing Christmas songs.

In the week before Christmas children go from house to house dressed as shepherds, playing pipes, singing and reciting Christmas poems. They are given money to buy presents.

A strict feast is observed for 24 hours before Christmas Eve, and is followed by a celebration meal, in which a light Milanese cake called panettone features as well as chocolate.

Presents and empty boxes, are drawn from the Urn of Fate - lucky dip, which always contains one gift per person. By twilight, candles are lighted around the family crib known as the Presepio, prayers are said, and children recite poems.

At noon on Christmas Day the pope gives his blessing to crowds gathered in the huge Vatican square.

In Italy the children wait until Epiphany, January 6, for their presents. According to tradition, the presents are delivered by a kind ugly witch called Befana on a broomstick. It was said that she was told by the three kings that the baby Jesus was born, she was busy and delayed visiting the baby.

She missed the Star lost her way and has been flying around ever since, leaving presents at every house with children in case he is there. She slides down chimneys, and fills stockings and shoes with good things for good children and it is said leaves coal for children who are not so good.

On christmas Eve the dinner is called cenone which is a traditional dish of eel.

Christmas lunch is Tortellini in Brodo which is filled pasta parcels in broth, also served is cappone which is boiled capon, or roasts are served in central Italy.

Another famous cake is pandoro which originated from Verona.

Christmas in Iraq

In the Christian homes an unusual ceremony is held in the courtyard of the home on Christmas Eve. One of the children in the family reads the story of the Nativity from an Arabic Bible. The other members of the family hold lighted candles, and as soon as the story has been read a bonfire is lit in one corner of the courtyard. The fire is made of dried thorns and the future of the house for the coming year depends upon the way the fire burns. If the thorns burn to ashes, the family will have good fortune. While the fire is burning, a psalm is sung. When the fire is reduced to ashes, everyone jumps over the ashes three times and makes a wish.

On Christmas day a similar bonfire is built in the church. While the fire burns the men of the congregation chant a hymn. Then there is a procession in which the officials of the church march behind the bishop, who carries an image of the infant Jesus upon a scarlet cushion. The long Christmas service always ends with the blessing of the people. The bishop reaches forth and touches a member of the congregation with his hand, putting his blessing upon him. That person touches the one next him, and so on, until all have received "the Touch of Peace."

Christmas in Finland

Everybody's house is given a very good clean in readiness for Christmas. Hours are spent in the kitchen cooking and baking special treats for the festive season.

Fir trees are felled, tied onto sleds, and taken home to be decorated.

A sheaf of grain is often tied to a pole, together with nuts and seeds and placed in the garden for the birds. Many of the peasants will not eat their Christmas dinner until the birds have had their dinner.

The meal was begun as soon as the first star appeared in the sky.

In Finland the Christmas tree is set up on Christmas Eve. Apples and other fruits, candies, paper flags, cotton and tinsel are used as decorations, and candles are used for lighting it.

The Christmas festivities are preceded by a visit to the famous steam baths, after which everyone dressed in clean clothes in preparation for the Christmas dinner, which is served at 5-7 in the evening.

Christmas gifts may be given out before or after the dinner. The children do not hang up stockings, but Santa Claus comes in person, often accompanied by as many as half a dozen Christmas elves to distribute the presents.

The main dish of the dinner is boiled codfish served snowy white and fluffy, with allspice, boiled potatoes, and cream sauce. The dried cod has been soaked for a week in a lye solution, then in clear water to soften it to the right texture. Also on the menu is roast suckling pig or a roasted fresh ham, mashed potatoes, and vegetables.

After dinner the children go to bed while the older people stay up to chat with visitors and drink coffee until about midnight.

Christmas Day services in the churches begin at six in the morning. It is a day for family visits and reunions. In some parts of the country the Star Boys tour the countryside singing Christmas songs. During all these days the people keep wishing each other a "Merry Yule."