Christmas Facts

Christmas isn't all about presents and festivities, it's a tapestry woven from centuries of folklore, religious tradition, and commercial flair, making it difficult to separate fact from myth. Many of the most familiar customs have roots that pre-date Christianity itself, originating in ancient winter solstice celebrations across Europe, where people sought to invite the return of the sun by burning logs, feasting, and decorating with evergreens. For example, the use of a Christmas tree is a German custom that became popular in Britain and America during the Victorian era, but its symbolic use of evergreens to represent life in the darkest winter months goes back to ancient Roman and Germanic practices. The holiday's ability to absorb and adapt these older, secular traditions is key to its enduring global appeal.

Other well-known beliefs are surprisingly modern or rooted in common misunderstandings. Contrary to popular belief, the Bible does not specify that Jesus was born on December 25th; this date was chosen by the Roman Catholic Church centuries later, possibly to coincide with existing pagan festivals like Saturnalia and Sol Invictus. Similarly, the familiar image of Santa Claus—the jolly, plump man in a red and white suit—was largely popularized in the early 20th century, notably by Coca-Cola advertising campaigns, evolving from earlier, varied depictions of Saint Nicholas and the British Father Christmas. Understanding these origins reveals that the festive season we celebrate today is less a fixed historical event and more a constantly evolving blend of faith, folklore, and successful marketing. Beware Jingles has been a bit mischevious and mixed a few myths in there as well.

Sort by: Newest Oldest Myths First Truth First

Fact or Myth: Rudolph was created for a department store

Fact or Myth: Tinsel was originally made of silver

Fact or Myth: Christmas pudding contains meat

Fact or Myth: Santa Claus is based on St. Nicholas