Christmas Traditions: Gift Giving
#MySeriouslyFunChristmas
Christmas Traditions: Gift Giving
#SeriouslyFunFacts
We all love to receive and give gifts at Christmas time but why do we give gifts?
One of the main reasons we give gifts at Christmas time is because the 3 Wise Men gave gifts of Frankincense, Gold and Myrrh when Jesus was born! Gifts are usually given by Saint Nicholas, Santa Claus or Father Christmas. Contrarily, gifts are given by Christkind in Germany, the 3 Wise Men in Spain and some people in Italy believe in old lady Befana. To help you find the perfect gift, we have created a range of gift guides and gift categories to ensure you find the right gift this Christmas.
Different countries leave their presents in different places for Christmas Day. For example, Europe places them in shoes that are left out by children and under the Christmas Tree. In countries like Australia, the USA and England, people hang up their stockings by the fireplace or by the Christmas Tree. In the majority of countries, people place their presents under the Christmas tree. For stocking filler ideas this Christmas, click here.
When do we give our gifts?
Christmas gifts are opened on different days and times in different cultures and countries around the world. The earliest presents are opened on the 5th of December by children in the Netherlands. Children from Belgium, Germany and some other European countries open their presents on the 6th of December on Saint Nicholas Day.
Some people have created the tradition of opening their gifts on Christmas Eve or Boxing Day.
Australia, the USA, the UK, Japan and various other countries around the world open presents on December 25th which is referred to as Christmas Day. Various countries that are mainly Catholic such as Spain and Mexico open their gifts on January 6th for Epiphany.
Secret Santa
A popular gift giving tradition for groups, workplaces, clubs and families is called Secret Santa. Secret Santa is a western tradition created by Larry Dean Stewart which involved the idea of giving mystery gifts during the holiday season.
For Secret Santa gift ideas, click here.
