Christmas

How did the Christmas tree become a global tradition?

What began as evergreen worship in pre-Christian cultures evolved through German traditions, British royal influence, and American commercialisation into one of the most recognisable symbols of Christmas celebrated worldwide today -- the Christmas tree

History Today: How December 25 became Christmas

On December 25, Christians around the world gather to celebrate Jesus’ birth, as many believe. With joyful carols, special liturgies and festive foods, it's considered an important cultural event. But, how did December 25 come to be associated with Jesus’ birthday? We take you through the history behind the date

In Graphics | Who started the tradition of Christmas stockings?

Every year, children across the globe lay out stockings ahead of Christmas in the hopes that Santa Claus will fill them with gifts for Christmas. But did you know how did tradition began?

Where’s Santa? How Norad uses satellites and AI to track Father Christmas

As Santa gets ready for his journey to deliver gifts this year for Christmas, the most asked question is — how does Norad track him? It’s been 70 years since this tradition first began

Track Santa live: All you need to know about his Christmas eve journey

It turns out the world's most famous traveller has officially entered the age of real-time tracking. Only Santa's ride comes with zero emissions, a global route map and a delivery schedule no airline could ever match.

In Pics | Get into the Christmas spirit at these wonderful markets

December is considered to be the holiday season. With Christmas and New Year, the month is all about food, decorations and the company of friends and family. If you are looking to celebrate Christmas in a special way, here are some markets you can visit across the world

History Today: How 5 men hijacked Indian Airlines flight 814

India faced one of its most serious security lapses on December 24, 1999, when hijackers took control of Indian Airlines flight 814. The flight travelling from Kathmandu to Delhi, with 191 people onboard, faced a harrowing experience when it was taken to Kandahar instead of its usual destination. On this day in 1979, the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan under the pretext of upholding the Soviet-Afghan Friendship Treaty of 1978

Travelling to Europe for Christmas? Plan for these airport strikes in December

These strikes are set to take place from December 19 to 22 and again from December 26 to 29, coinciding with the peak of the Christmas travel rush, and could impact more than 400 flights if staffing levels dip significantly

Why 'Ugly Christmas Sweaters' are popular: Fashion trend and cultural significance explained

As festive fashion takes over winter wardrobes, the Ugly Christmas sweater trend has emerged as a cultural phenomenon blending humour, nostalgia and comfort. From its mid-20th century origins to pop culture moments, the trend reflects how Christmas style has evolved from tradition to playful self-expression.

History Today: When the Christmas tree was decorated with electric lights for the first time

The coniferous tree, a charming part of Christmas, was lit up with candles for years. These posed a hazard as they could catch fire, turning the holiday into a tragedy for many people. On December 22, 1882, the Christmas tree was decorated with electric lights for the first time, changing holiday traditions forever