It’s that time of year again when the jolly Christmas spirit is all around! With the arrival of the Winter Solstice, we are ready to embrace the festive season with open arms. Here, we’ll guide you through the English customs and traditions that you can incorporate into your celebrations to make it an authentic English Christmas experience.
The Advent Calendar Tradition
Advent calendars are an integral part of the English Christmas tradition. These calendars count down the days until Christmas, starting from December 1st until December 24th. Each day, a chocolate or sweet is hidden behind a door that can be opened up. Several modern versions of Advent calendars are available nowadays, which include mini cosmetics, toy soldiers, stickers, and ornaments. So grab an Advent calendar, and open a door each day to get into the Christmas spirit!
The Traditional Christmas Meal
Christmas Day Dinner is a highlight in the English calendar. The meal consists of roasted turkey with stuffing, Brussels sprouts, parsnips, roast potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and bread sauce. The meal ends with Christmas pudding, mince pies, and a glass of sherry. Vegetarians and non-turkey eaters can opt for nut roasts or opt-out of meat altogether.
Christmas Crackers and Carols
A Christmas dinner isn’t complete without a cracker! These festive tubes contain paper crowns, a toy, and a joke. Two people pull on either end of the cracker until it breaks with a loud “popping” sound. England is well-known for its Christmas carols; these songs have been sung for centuries and are a way to spread the joy of the season. Sing carols at home, on the streets, or join a local community choir.
So there you have it, our guide to an English Christmas experience. Join the locals in England to embrace the festive spirit, and celebrate Christmas in traditional English style. Happy Holidays!