Christmas is a very special occasion for every British. Spending time with one's family and the peaceful atmosphere are things, which English most appreciate about Christmas. Christmas in England is a very special moment for children. For them it is a "magical time" as they get presents from their favorite Father Christmas. For grown ups, as in most countries it is a great party-time.

History of Christmas in England
History of Christmas in UK dates back to thousands of years. It is believed that Christmas came to England in 596 AD when St. Augustine landed on its shore bringing Christianity to the Anglo-Saxons.

Christmas Tradition in UK
There are many Christmas traditions which are followed by every English with earnest devotion. Some of the most popular traditions have been briefly discussed below:

Mistletoe
England was the first country to use mistletoe traditionally. Every house in England hangs a mistletoe at the time of Christmas. It is believed to have magical qualities in it and from this comes our custom of kissing under the mistletoe.

Christmas tree
The concept of Christmas tree in England emerged when the country of Norway presented Britain with a huge Christmas Tree in 1947. Christmas tree is topped by a star and embellished with colors, sparkled balls, lights and ribbons.

Yule Log
It is considered auspicious to burn Yule log for twelve days. The log is burnt from Christmas Eve till the twelfth day and is believed to bring good luck.

Christmas Decorations
Most of the Christmas traditions have been adopted from the US. Red and green are the most common colors used in Christmas decorations in England. Red is the symbol of blood which Christ shed at the time of crucifixion and green represents life. People often include papers and light decoratives in their Christmas decoration.

Traditional Mummers
In earlier times, mummers were called to regale kids. Mummers are entertainers who wear masks and enact special plays for children. The custom is followed till date.

Christmas Day Celebrations
Christmas celebrations begin with bursting of crackers. A traditional feature of Christmas afternoon is the Queen's Christmas Message to the nation which is broadcast on radio and television. England is the only nation following this tradition till date. Singing of carol is one of the oldest customs of Britain. Some people participate in the street caroling to gather charity for the poor. This is followed by the traditional exchange of gifts with dear ones and a sumptuous Christmas meal at night.

Boxing Day
Boxing Day is celebrated a day after Christmas, on December 26. A popular tradition of the day is to give alms to the poor and needy. Besides, on this day children go around collecting money in clay boxes and when the boxes fill up, they break them open and buy stuff for themselves.