Christmas eve

Christmas Eve is the evening or entire day before Christmas Day, the festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas Eve is widely observed in many countries on December 24th, based on the Christian liturgical year. It is a culturally significant celebration in most of the Western world and is largely celebrated in Eastern Christianity as well.

Origins

The celebration of Christmas Eve has roots in the Roman celebration of Saturnalia and the Christian tradition of the Nativity. The term "Christmas Eve" is first documented in 1297 under the Old English expression 'Cristes Maesse', meaning "Christ's Mass".

Traditions

Christmas Eve traditions vary widely around the world. In some cultures, the day is marked by fasting and prayer, while in others it is associated with festive meals, gift-giving, and the decoration of the Christmas tree. Many Christian denominations hold special church services on Christmas Eve, which may include the singing of Christmas carols and the display of Nativity scenes.

Observances

In many countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, Christmas Eve is a public holiday or a de facto holiday. It is also a part of the wider Christmas and holiday season, which includes New Year's Eve and Epiphany.

See also

• Christmas Day
• Twelve Days of Christmas
• Advent
• Nativity of Jesus