We all create our own traditions and memories, but how did we get where we are today? The first Christian Roman Emperor was Constantine, who ruled in 336. A few years later Pope Julius officially declared December 25th as the Birth of Christ. This would lead to many new traditions within the Christian religion and within societies.

Of course today there wouldn't be a Christmas without Santa Clause plastered everywhere. But where did he come from? Saint Nicholas was a bishop in what is now Turkey in the 4th century whose parents died when he was a young age, therefore he acquired money. A man with three daughters didn't have enough money to pay for the dowry of their wedding. St. Nicholas then dropped gold coins into the chimney and went into one stocking that was drying. Then St. Nicholas began giving out other secret gifts as well.

The Christmas tree has been in the Pagan and Christian religions and used in Roman culture for thousands of years. It was seen as a sign of everlasting life with God. In Medieval Germany they were seen as paradise trees and were representing Adam and Eve's garden. The lights were brought about due to fires that began to erupt in the late 1800's, because of the candles that were previously used on the trees.

Caroling began in Europe, as just Pagan songs during the Winter Solstice. Caroling meant to dance to something at the time and the name stuck.

So let's see what will happen years down the road from now. Maybe your family traditions will one day be in everyone else's home too.

Main source: www.whychristmas.com