The first postage stamp to commemorate Christmas was issued in Austria in 1937.
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The poinsettia is a traditional Christmas flower. In Mexico (its original birthplace), the poinsettia is known as the "Flower of the Holy Night".
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The abbreviation Xmas isn't irreligious. The letter X is a Greek abbreviation for Christ.
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The Christmas tree displayed in Trafalgar square in London is an annual gift to the UK from Norway since 1947. The Norwegian spruce given is a token of appreciation of British friendship during World War II from the Norwegian people.
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The world's tallest Xmas tree at 221ft high was erected in a Washington shopping mall in 1950.
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At Christmas, it is traditional to exchange kisses beneath the mistletoe tree. In ancient Scandinavia, mistletoe was associated with peace and friendship. That may account for the custom of "kissing beneath the mistletoe".
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Robins on cards were a joke 150 years ago when postmen wore red tunics and were named after them.
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Coca Cola was the first beverage company to use Santa for a winter promotion.
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