How did the tradition of decorating evergreens at Christmas begin? The tradition of decorating evergreens can be traced back to ancient times in Rome and Egypt in celebration of the winter solstice. In 1510, the first Christmas tree was displayed in Riga, Latvia.
A cultural reaffirmation, Kwanzaa celebrates the heritage of African Americans between Dec. 26 and Jan. 1. Neither religious nor political, the holiday has more than 18 million participants worldwide. Each day of the weeklong event focuses on one of the traditional seven guiding principles, and includes a program with candles, libation and gift giving.
Why is Hanukkah celebrated? The origins of Hanukkah can be traced back to 165 B.C. King Antiochus IV of Syria oppressed Jews, with the desire that Jews would assimilate to many aspects of Greek culture and Hellenistic life. Antiochus massacred Jews, prohibited the practice of Judaism and desecrated the altar of the Temple of Jerusalem.
