’Tis the season

“Christmas” was celebrated long before the advent of Christianity. In olden days, December was the time to slaughter livestock (due to the lack of fodder). So the winter solstice was a time of plenty—and possibly the only time of the year when fresh meat was available to many people. Wine and beer was also newly available to add to the revels.

In ancient Rome, it was a feast to Saturn, the god of agriculture, that lasted from a week before the winter solstice for almost a month. Saturnalia was a chaotic, hedonistic time in Rome— when the slaves became masters and all business ceased.

Yule was celebrated throughout northern Europe, and particularly Scandinavia, on the day of the winter solstice (21 December). The men of the household would bring home large logs and—for however long the logs burnt—the festival would celebrate the return of the sun as daylight became longer. Our Yule log comes from this tradition.

It was not until the fourth century that church leaders adopted December 25 as the birthday of Jesus. (Early Christianity celebrated Easter as its most sacred holiday.) At first called the “Feast of the Nativity”, the festival spread quickly from Egypt to England and, by the end of the eighth century, to Scandinavia and Russia. Christmas became a time of sharing, where the ruling classes shared their wealth with those less fortunate. After Cromwell defeated the monarchy in England, the celebration of Christmas was abolished by his puritan government. Only the restoration of Charles II brought the return of the popular holiday.

The Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens focused on charity, family and goodwill to mankind and, in many ways, set the tone for Christmas celebration with its references to punch, wine, beer and general merry-making with family. The custom of children receiving gifts began around this time. As years went by, the pressure to give ever more expensive gifts now make the Christmas season a make-or-break time for retailers.

This Christmas, why not take a step back, and consider celebrating in a less conventional, but more traditional style—share the true spirit of Christmas with those less fortunate.

Remember, great gift-giving ideas are found close to home. Visit Prince Edward County wineries, craft breweries, cider companies and distillery to stock up on holiday cheer, host gifts, and stocking stuffers.

Our local artists and artisans have laboured hard all year to create unique and thought-provoking gifts to show that you care.