Winter Holidays
The winter holidays are an exciting, magical time of year, with festive lights, decorations, and seasonal activities that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. During this special time of year, people often travel to be with family or friends and to enjoy traditions that have been passed down for generations.
For many, the winter holidays mark the beginning of the festive season. In North America, Thanksgiving and Christmas are often the first holidays of the season, with Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa following shortly behind. Each holiday has its own unique traditions and celebrations.
Thanksgiving is a holiday in the United States and Canada traditionally celebrated with a feast and thanks to the Creator for a bountiful harvest. Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of every November in the United States and the second Monday of October in Canada.
Christmas is a day of celebration that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. Celebrations take place on December 25th and involve spiritual services, gift exchanges, and generous feasts for all. Many homes are decorated with festive lights and evergreen trees to symbolize the season.
Hanukkah is an eight-day holiday that celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and commemorates the miracle of a one-day supply of oil lasting eight days. Families gather together to light a menorah and exchange Hanukkah gelt.
Kwanzaa is a week-long festival celebrated by many African Americans to honor their cultural roots and ancestors. The first day of Kwanzaa is celebrated on December 26th and finishes on January 1st. During the seven-day period, seven principles of unity including Umoja, Kujichagulia, and Ujima are celebrated.
No matter the faith or cultural background, the winter holidays are a time for people to come together and celebrate love, friendship, and family. During this time of year, people often pause to reflect on the past year, to share blessings with those in need, and to look forward to the new year.
