During the 13th century, French nuns started the tradition of giving gifts to the needy on the eve of St. Nicholas.
The act of giving presents during Christmas has its roots in the Nativity story, where the Three Wise Men gave gold, frankincense, and myrrh to baby Jesus.
Historical Origins
The Romans also had a tradition of giving gifts during Saturnalia, a festival that lasted from December 17th to the 23rd.
St. Nicholas was one of the most famous gift-givers during Christmas, leaving surprise presents in the shoes left outside by children and adults alike.
During the 13th century, several French nuns made and distributed gifts to the needy on the eve of St. Nicholas.
However, gift-giving became a significant part of Christmas festivities during the 18th century.
The gifts given during this time were meant to remind people of the King’s journey, God’s selfless gift to humanity, and to help those who were less fortunate.
Victorian Era Traditions
Victorians made Christmas a warm and family-oriented celebration. Even strict parents would play games with their children, filled with charity and friendliness.
To the Victorians, giving gifts was an act of kindness, creativity, and merriment.
One such tradition was the cobweb party, where each family member was assigned a color and had to follow the corresponding yarn to find a small gift.
Today, Christmas is largely associated with gift-giving.
Newspaper advertisements for Christmas started in 1820, and Father Christmas (or Santa Claus) appeared in stores since 1840.
By 1867, Macy’s department store in New York City stayed open until midnight on Christmas Eve to accommodate last-minute shoppers.
While some argue that Christmas has become too commercialized, incorporating traditional Victorian Christmas fun can add to the holiday spirit in modern society.
Most parents are unwilling to forego the “commercial” Christmas entirely, but that doesn’t mean we can’t incorporate the spirit of past holidays into our celebrations.
FAQ
1. Why do we give gifts at Christmas?
There are a few theories as to why gift-giving is such an important part of Christmas. One theory is that it stems from the story of the wise men who brought gifts to baby Jesus. Another theory is that it’s a way to celebrate the goodwill and generosity of the season. Whatever the reason, gift-giving is a way to show appreciation and love for those in our lives, and to spread joy and happiness during the holiday season.
2. When did gift-giving become popular at Christmas?
The tradition of giving gifts at Christmas has been around for centuries, but it wasn’t until the 19th century that it became more widespread. This was due in part to the rise of the middle class, which had more disposable income to spend on gifts, as well as the popularity of Christmas as a holiday. The tradition of gift-giving has continued to evolve over time, with new trends and traditions emerging each year.
3. What are some popular Christmas gifts?
There are a wide variety of gifts that are popular at Christmas, from the traditional to the trendy. Some popular gifts include clothing and accessories, electronics, books, and toys. Homemade gifts, such as baked goods or crafts, are also a popular choice. Whatever the gift, it’s important to choose something that is thoughtful and meaningful to the recipient.
4. Do all cultures give gifts at Christmas?
While gift-giving is a common tradition in many cultures, not all cultures celebrate Christmas in the same way. In some cultures, gift-giving is not a part of the Christmas tradition at all. In others, gifts are exchanged on a different day, such as December 6th in Germany, which is known as St. Nicholas Day. Still, in other cultures, such as Japan, Christmas is celebrated more as a romantic holiday, with couples exchanging gifts and spending time together.
5. How can I make gift-giving more meaningful?
There are many ways to make gift-giving more meaningful, such as choosing gifts that are personalized or handmade, or donating to a charity in the recipient’s name. Another way to make gift-giving more meaningful is to focus on the experience rather than the gift itself, such as planning a special outing or activity with the recipient. Ultimately, the most meaningful gifts are those that come from the heart.
Zayn Anderson is a prolific writer with a passion for uncovering the world’s intriguing facts. Armed with an insatiable curiosity, he delves into various subjects, from history and science to nature and technology.