Centuries before Jesus, December has long been a time of celebration around the world.  During the winter solstice, when Europeans could look forward to longer days with extended hours of sunlight.  In Scandinavia, the Norse celebrated Yule from December 21. In recognition of the return of the sun, fathers and sons would bring home large logs to burn. The people would feast until the log burned out, which could take up to 12 days.

December was a perfect time to celebrate in most of Europe when cattle were slaughtered to save feeding them during the winter. For many, it was the only time they ate fresh meat, and wine and beer was ready for drinking.  In Germany, people honored the pagan god Odin. Germans were terrified of him, believing he flew through the sky to observe who would prosper or perish. Roman Emperor Aurelian chose December 25th to be the center of festivities during the winter solstice. When Christianity became the religion of Rome, it was decided to combine this pagan festival with celebration of Christ.  No one knows the exact date of Christ’s birth, but the Scriptures reveal it could be spring of the year 2 BC.
 

The legend of Santa Claus originates from a 4th century bearded bishop named Saint Nicholas, living in what is now Turkey. Because of his generosity to the poor, there became a feast day in honor of the anniversary of his death, December 6. In the late-18th century, Dutch settlers brought this legend to America.