The first Christmas card was designed in 1843 by J.C. Horsley.
38
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
Gold-wrapped chocolate coins commemorate St Nicholas who gave bags of gold coins to the poor.
196
The "Urn of Fate" is part of the Christmas celebrations in many Italian households. The Urn of Fate is brought out on Christmas Eve. It holds a wrapped present for everyone. The mother tries her luck first, then the others in turn. If you get a present wi
-19
The abbreviation Xmas isn't irreligious. The letter X is a Greek abbreviation for Christ.
273
The first postage stamp to commemorate Christmas was issued in Austria in 1937.
28
Robins on cards were a joke 150 years ago when postmen wore red tunics and were named after them.
20
The sun sets on 24 December at 3.55pm in the UK, and rises the following morning at 8.05am.
81