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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English Puritan leader Oliver Cromwell banned Christmas between 1647 and 1660 because he believed such celebrations were immoral for the holiest day of the year.
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The first postage stamp to commemorate Christmas was issued in Austria in 1937.
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Gold-wrapped chocolate coins commemorate St Nicholas who gave bags of gold coins to the poor.
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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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Although now mostly vegetarian, in Victorian times, mince pies were made with beef and spices.
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Electric lights for trees were first used in 1895.
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