A Christmas tree is a decorated tree, usually, an evergreen conifer, such as spruce, pine or fir, or an artificial tree of similar appearance, associated with the celebration of Christmas. The custom was developed in medieval Livonia (present-day Estonia and Latvia), and in early modern [...]
Dancing mania, also is known as dancing plague, choreomania, St. John's Dance and St. Vitus's Dance was a social phenomenon that occurred primarily in mainland Europe between the 14th and 17th centuries. It involved groups of people dancing erratically, sometimes thousands at a time. The [...]
The mysterious history behind the kissing plant and how the plant became associated with Christmas traditions and the Holidays. Have you ever received a kiss under a sprig of Mistletoe during the holiday season? If not, then you have undoubtedly seen the tradition played out [...]
Santa Claus, also known as Saint Nicholas, Kris Kringle, Father Christmas, or simply Santa. He is a legendary figure originating in Western Christian culture who is said to bring gifts to the homes of well-behaved children on Christmas Eve (24 December) and the early morning [...]
The winter solstice, also known as midwinter, is an astronomical phenomenon marking the day with the shortest period of daylight and the longest night of the year. It occurs when one of the Earth's poles has its maximum tilt away from the Sun. It happens [...]
In many countries around the world, New Years Eve Day is celebrated on 1st January with fireworks and festivities the evening before. But this is not the only type of New Years Eve day celebration and not everyone celebrates on 1st January. Here we look [...]
The Christmas season abounds with holiday customs and traditions, but most of us probably never stop to wonder about their origins. We decorate our homes inside and out with lights, candles, and greenery. We stuff stockings and send Christmas cards to family and friends. But [...]
Think of any fairy tale illustration of elves or goblins sitting on or under a toadstool, and most likely the cap of such a fungus will be bright red with white spots. The autumnal abundance and vibrant colors of the Amanita Muscaria make it probably [...]
