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.
26
Gold-wrapped chocolate coins commemorate St Nicholas who gave bags of gold coins to the poor.
196
The abbreviation Xmas isn't irreligious. The letter X is a Greek abbreviation for Christ.
273
Frumenty was a spiced porridge, enjoyed by both rich and poor. It was a forerunner of modern Christmas puddings. It is linked in legend to the Celtic god Dagda, who stirred a porridge made up of all the good things of the earth.
5
7.6 million Christmas trees are sold each year.
100
There are 13 Santas in Iceland, each leaving a gift for children. They come down from the mountain one by one, starting on December 12 and have names like Spoon Licker, Door Sniffer and Meat Hook.
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