Some of December’s Holidays and How They're Celebrated

AnnaMarie Harper ah484@uakron.edu

December is one of those months when it’s always cold and busy. Here are some of the most well-known holidays and what they look like:

Christmas (December 25th): Christmas is one of the most popular holidays around the world and is celebrated as both a religious holiday and a worldwide phenomenon. Many religious people celebrate by attending church services, saying prayers, or reading the nativity story of Jesus Christ. Others might celebrate by exchanging gifts, decorating trees, or having parties. Regardless, both religious and non-religious know it’s the best day to get together with family and enjoy each other’s company.

Kwanzaa (December 26 - January 1): Kwanzaa is a cultural holiday where people celebrate African Heritage, community, and traditions. The creator of this holiday, Maulana Karenga, based it on the various parts of West, East, and Southeast African harvest festival traditions. Each of these days focuses on a different principle, such as unity or purpose. Some traditions they practice are lighting the kinara, telling stories, spending time with family, and participating in community events that highlight their culture.  

Hanukkah (8 Days, Dates Vary): Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday that is used as a reminder of many years ago when they won the battle against the Greeks to practice their religion freely. Despite their temple being destroyed, they repaired and cleaned it, and to celebrate, they lit an oil lamp which burned for eight days. That is why Hanukkah is now celebrated in the span of eight days. Their traditions consist of lighting the menorah each night, playing dreidel, giving gifts, and eating food made with oil. 

Las Posadas (December 16- 24): Las Posadas is usually celebrated in Mexico, Central America, and many Latino communities within the U.S. This particular holiday reenacts the biblical story of Mary and Joseph searching for a place for Jesus to stay before he was born. Many celebrate this holiday with traditions such as singing, candlelit gatherings, breaking piñatas, and eating food.

Although each of these holidays comes from different cultures and beliefs, they all have something in common: people come together to spend time with each other, celebrate traditions, and try to end the year on a positive note.