We all enjoy eating excessively at Christmas but did you know that it is traditional to fast during advent? Alice Rigby investigates this tradition and its demise.
What made the herald angels sing?
Megan Dina Garlick explores how the modern carolling has formed from medieval liturgical songs, travelling to wish friends good fortune, and the nineteenth century carolling which defines another current Christmas tradition.
How the Middle Ages made Christmas
A medieval Christmas had both religious and pagan elements. James Brannan explores how Cristes Maesse was celebrated, referring to carolling, gift giving, and feasting.
Winter is coming
While Christmas has come to dominate December for most of us, the winter solstice is the really significant day of this month. Tom Oliver discovers the modern and ancient celebrations revolve around this event.
Victoria, Queen of Christmas
As the woman who brought us both Christmas trees and Christmas crackers, Victoria had more of an effect on your 25th December than you might imagine. Becky Hennell-Smith investigates Victoria’s fascination with Christmas celebrations, as well as the popularity that gave rise to the widespread adoption of these new traditions.