History & Origin of Christmas
Christmas has its roots in both religious and cultural traditions. The earliest Christian communities did not celebrate Jesus’ birthday for nearly 200 years. The decision to celebrate Christmas on December 25 was made around 336 AD during the reign of Roman Emperor Constantine.
Historians believe the date was chosen to coincide with existing winter festivals, such as the Roman Saturnalia, which celebrated the winter solstice and the rebirth of the sun. Early Christian leaders wanted to give followers a new reason to celebrate during this time, blending old traditions with Christian meaning. The date also aligns with the belief that Jesus was conceived on March 25, making December 25 exactly nine months later.
When was the first Christmas celebrated?
According to findmypast.com, the first formal Christmas celebration was in Ancient Rome on Dec. 25, 336.
Why is Christmas on Dec. 25?
According to Britannica, the date was first suggested by Sextus Julius Africanus, who set up a universal chronology in the 200s. Africanus thought Jesus was conceived on March 25, which was the day he believed the world was created. Then he added nine months to get a December birth date. The Roman Church didn’t accept the date until 336, during the reign of Emperor Constantine.
