Talking about Christmas, what are the things that first come to your mind? Christmas trees, lights, caroling, bells, candies, stockings full of gifts? Anymore? How can Christmas be successful without these icons that liven up the spirits of this occasion? Apart from the religious value of this festival, there are several icons and symbols associated which prove to be a major attraction for all people. Several days before Christmas, people start buying these symbols to showcase their joy and happiness. They make great beautifications to set the mood and enhance the splendor of the house. These symbols have become so popular that ever since November arrives, markets get stuffed with all icons and mascots. They are also taken as a great way to attract a large crowd for shopping.Amazingly, all symbols and icons associated with this colorful festival have their individual significance. Santa Claus riding on a reindeer sledge, who has become a mascot of this festival, has a Dutch origin where he was developed out of the real person called St. Nicholas who used to bring gifts for children. The popular Christmas tree originated from pagan, when they adapted Christianity and decorated evergreens trees with candies and nuts. The star on the top of the Christmas tree symbolizes protection all round the year and finds its origin from the star of Bethlehem, when the angles descend on earth providing eternal protection to Joseph and Mary during the birth of Christ. Do not be surprised to know that candies on the Christmas tree also have a traditional importance. It is believed that the candy cane is the symbol of the shepherd's crook at the nativity. Christmas symbols are not only eye soothing but also carry great meanings and stories behind their existence. Know all about them in this section.
Bells
Bells are always associated with the churches and the religion of Christianity. It is said that with Christmas the use of large church bells to call the faithful to worship may have been started by Bishop Paulinus of Nola (431 A.D.) in Campania.
Candles
Lighting candles is a custom of many religions for many different reasons. But when it comes to Christmas, many feel that the candles are symbolic of the Light from the heaven it signifies the sun's light and warmth
Candy Canes
The association of Candy Canes with the celebration of Christmas have been around for centuries but until 1900 they were not found decorated with red stripes and bent into the shape of a cane. They were handed out
Reindeer
With the approach of Christmas season, one can hear the voices of small children singing "Santa Claus is coming to town' in every corner of the world. Surely, Santa Claus is the most loved icon when we talk about Christmas.
Star
To most of the Christians the Christmas star symbolizes Jesus Christ, who is referred to as 'the bright and morning star'. In ancient religions the stars always held high and important position even before Christmas.
Stockings
All of us are familiar with the significance of stockings on Christmas. When we go to shop for decorative ornaments to beautify the Christmas tree, stockings top the list. The true essence of Christmas is personified when big
Wreath
The wreath has significant meaning for the season. Wreath is always associated with evergreen and it's circular shape represents eternity, for it has no beginning and no end. From the religious perspective
Xmas
Do you get confused when someone replaces Christmas with the word 'Xmas'? Many people debate on whether reciting Christmas as 'Xmas' is correct or not. Further, there are many people who criticize the usage
Yule Log
Yule log plays a vital role in the celebration of Christmas. It is said that Yule Log was taken from ancient Sun worship rituals. Yule Logs are supposed to be cut from red oak trees There is a custom that on the Eve of Christmas