When most people in the United States think of December, Christmas probably comes to mind; however, Christmas is far from the only holiday celebrated this time of year, nor is it necessarily the most interesting. However, December 25th often over-shadows these other celebrations, so here I am to shed some light on them, and their unique traits.
1. Hanukkah
Out of all of the holidays on this list, the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah is probably the most well known in the U.S. Also known as "The Festival of Lights", Hanukkah is an eight night long celebration, It commemorates when the menorah of a Jewish temple after liberation, burned for eight days straight, despite only having enough oil to burn for one night. Hanukkah is often celebrated by the lighting of a menorah with eight candles, the giving of gifts, and celebrations with family.
2. Yule
Yule is one of the oldest holidays, stemming from Germanic pagan groups. Yule is the precursor to Christmas. In fact, you've probably heard of a "yule log". Modern Christmas is very much a Christian version of the Yule holiday. Yule was traditionally held in December, around the winter solstice, and included parties, feasting, decorating the home with greenery (such as mistletoe), and sacrifices. Today, many Neo-Pagans celebrate Yule, instead of Christmas. They celebrate the holiday with feasts and gift givings.
3. Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is a holiday that many hear about every December, but don't know much about. It was first celebrated in 1966, and it takes place every year in the United States from December 26th to January 1st. It is a celebration of African American heritage. Participants decorate their homes in African art, and decor, wearing more traditional African clothing such as Kaftans, and holding ceremonies that reflect African ancestry and culture. The holiday culminates in a feast, and gift-giving.
4. Omisoka
Omisoka is Japanese New Year's Eve, and it is a very important holiday in Japan. It is traditionally regarded as the second most important day of the year, the first most important being New Years Day. Families usually celebrate by preparing and eating yakisoba- d dish with long, buckwheat noodles. At midnight people will go to Shinto shrines or Buddhist temples to make wishes for the New Year and bring amulets, and charms for luck.
