The abbreviation Xmas isn't irreligious. The letter X is a Greek abbreviation for Christ.
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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.
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The Queen's Christmas speech was first televised in 1957.
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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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Electric lights for trees were first used in 1895.
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Nearly 60 million Christmas trees are grown each year in Europe.
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Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer was invented for a US firm's Christmas promotion in 1938.
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One town in Indiana is called Santa Claus. There is also a Santa, Idaho.
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