Christmas Just Ain't What It Used To Be: A Look at Changing Holiday Traditions

As with many things in life, traditions change over time. For example, the way people celebrate Christmas - arguably the biggest holiday of the year - is no exception. From the presents that are exchanged to the way people decorate their homes, the traditional Christmas is vastly different from what it used to be. In this article, we will take a look at some of the ways Christmas has evolved and compare it to Christmas of the past.

Gift Exchange

The act of exchanging gifts is one of the most iconic elements of the Christmas holiday. The gift-giving tradition has been around for centuries, but the types of gifts exchanged have changed drastically over time. During the Victorian era, handmade items such as knitted scarves and embroidered handkerchiefs were popular gifts. However, today, people tend to opt for store-bought items or gift cards instead. The change in emphasis on gifts can be attributed to the increasing commercialization of the holiday season.

Food & Drink

Food and drink are essential components of any holiday celebration, and Christmas is no exception. Over the years, traditional Christmas dishes have evolved to include more modern fare. For instance, roast beef and other red meats have become increasingly popular, while traditional dishes like ham and turkey remain staples of the holiday. Similarly, drinks such as mulled wine and eggnog are still enjoyed today, although they have been supplemented by alcoholic beverages such as beer and cider.

Decorations & Trees

One of the most visible signs of the holiday season are decorations. From twinkling lights to festive wreaths, decorations have been used to add a bit of cheer to the festive season for centuries. However, the decorations used have changed over time. For example, electrically-powered decorations such as strands of Christmas lights were not available until the early 20th century. Similarly, artificial trees have become increasingly popular in recent decades, though real live trees are still a common sight during the holiday season.

Conclusion

Overall, Christmas has changed significantly over the years. From the gifts exchanged to the food and decorations used, the traditional Christmas is vastly different from what it used to be. While some of these changes may seem small and insignificant, they are reflective of the ever-evolving nature of holiday celebrations. That said, the spirit of Christmas remains the same, regardless of the changing traditions.

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