Christmas Explainer
FILE - Decked in a Santa outfit and holiday lights, a child bolts from the starting line of the annual Christmas run in Vilnius, Lithuania, Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025.
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Originally a Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus, Christmas has evolved into a global cultural event. Early Christians didn't commemorate Jesus' birth annually, focusing instead on his resurrection. The tradition of celebrating on Dec. 25 began in the fourth century, possibly aligning with pagan festivals. In the Middle Ages, Christmas was known for rowdy celebrations, but it became more family-oriented in the 19th century. Santa Claus was inspired by St. Nicholas, a fourth-century bishop known for his generosity. He has since become a secular symbol. In Japan, a unique tradition involves eating Kentucky Fried Chicken on Christmas.
