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.
35
Although now mostly vegetarian, in Victorian times, mince pies were made with beef and spices.
14
Gold-wrapped chocolate coins commemorate St Nicholas who gave bags of gold coins to the poor.
196
In Greek legend, malicious creatures called Kallikantzaroi sometimes play troublesome pranks at Christmas time. In order to get rid of them, salt or an old shoe is burnt. The pungent burning stench drives off, or at least helps discourage, the Kallikantza
6
The Queen's Christmas speech was first televised in 1957.
18
Coca Cola was the first beverage company to use Santa for a winter promotion.
251
Black Friday in the UK is the Friday before Christmas. Instead of shopping, many people get very drunk!
10
Nearly 60 million Christmas trees are grown each year in Europe.
74