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
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The abbreviation Xmas isn't irreligious. The letter X is a Greek abbreviation for Christ.
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Carols began as an old English custom called wassailing, toasting neighbours to a long life.
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Coca Cola was the first beverage company to use Santa for a winter promotion.
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The Queen's Christmas speech was first televised in 1957.
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Nearly 60 million Christmas trees are grown each year in Europe.
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