The Complex Origins of Christmas: Jesus’ Birth Date and Global Traditions

While Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus, historical evidence suggests he was likely not born on December 25, with diverse traditions shaping celebrations worldwide.

• Historical research casts doubt on Jesus' birth date, suggesting he was likely born before 4 BCE, possibly in the fall, based on biblical and historical evidence.
• The December 25 date for Christmas likely originated from the early Church repurposing pagan winter solstice festivals to celebrate Christ's birth.
• In Japan, a unique tradition sees families flocking to KFC for Christmas meals, a practice rooted in a 1974 marketing campaign.
• Venezuelans celebrate by skating to church on Christmas Eve, with streets closed to accommodate this festive custom.
• From Iceland’s troll-like Christmas cat to Sweden’s Donald Duck TV special, global Christmas traditions reflect diverse cultural interpretations of the holiday.

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