Friday, December 6, 2013

Christmas Expectations

Christmas Expectations

Some traditions will never change!
Every holiday has its own theme and customs and of course, Christmas has Santa Claus and the Christmas tree. Each year, when the holiday season rolls around, people have certain Christmas expectations. For instance, most of us envision enjoying what we consider a traditional Christmas – and that will likely include the Yule log, Santa Claus, and a Christmas tree.

Color Schemes

Christmas is a festive occasion. The traditional colors associated with Christmas are red and green. You will also see silver and gold which indicate riches and glory. Santa is usually dressed in a red suit that is trimmed in white and his elves usually wear green.

These colors have been established over the centuries. People take these colors for granted to be in conformance to the Christmas spirit. Classic candy canes are red and white.  

Snow

For some reason, many people have associated snow with Christmas. It is possible that since many countries and states normally have snow in December, people worldwide believe that snow is a necessary ingredient for Christmas.

In places that do not have snow, people will simulate the snow by using spray cans. Some plastic Christmas trees would have green leaves and some white painted on the boughs and leaves to give a semblance of snow on the tree. 

Memorable Decorations 

There are some decorations that have to be present in every household. The Christmas wreath is usually placed in a noticeable place. The wreath represents life and vigor. Mistletoe will be hung in a location that is conducive for kissing. Couples are expected to kiss each other under the mistletoe. Some houses may have actual Yule logs burning in the fireplace. Others may make a dessert in the shape of the Yule log. 

Santa Claus and His Helpers 

Figures of Santa Claus may be used to decorate the home. Besides Santa, some people also decorate their yard and homes with figures of reindeer, Elves, Frosty the Snowman, and Santa’s sleigh. These decorations add a festive atmosphere to the space and make it more joyful for all to enjoy. 

Cookies and Milk 

Children insist on leaving a snack out for Santa when he visits and the traditional snack is cookies and milk. The thought is that Santa can get very tired on his long journey going from house to house. The cookies and milk can give him energy and perhaps give your child a few extra points with Santa. With that in mind, it is important to make sure that the cookies and milk are gone when the children wake up in the morning.

These are some of the many Christmas expectations we associate with this holiday. Please share your thoughts about Christmas traditions…

Debbie Allen is a regular team member at Package From Santa. Many of her articles discuss Christmas decorations and other holiday traditions.

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