The abbreviation Xmas isn't irreligious. The letter X is a Greek abbreviation for Christ.
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The sun sets on 24 December at 3.55pm in the UK, and rises the following morning at 8.05am.
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At Christmas, it is traditional to exchange kisses beneath the mistletoe tree. In ancient Scandinavia, mistletoe was associated with peace and friendship. That may account for the custom of "kissing beneath the mistletoe".
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Carols began as an old English custom called wassailing, toasting neighbours to a long life.
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Black Friday in the UK is the Friday before Christmas. Instead of shopping, many people get very drunk!
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The first Christmas card was designed in 1843 by J.C. Horsley.
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Electric lights for trees were first used in 1895.
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