Christmas
The article discusses Christmas celebrations and traditions.
Russian Orthodox Church plays ‘unique role’ in keeping traditions alive – Putin
In his Christmas message, President Putin commended the Russian Orthodox Church's charitable efforts to support veterans of the Ukraine conflict during a Christmas service in Moscow.
The Longest Holidays in Europe: We Sit Down to Orthodox Christmas Eve in Bielsko Podlaskie
The article explores the traditions of celebrating Orthodox Christmas Eve in Bielsko Podlaskie, reflecting on the historical presence of Jewish and Catholic festivities in the region before World War II.
Epiphany: what this festival means and how it is celebrated around the world
January 6 marks the end of the Christmas festivities and is celebrated with traditions like the Befana gift-giving in Italy, which holds significant meaning in Christianity.
The Presepe Pride initiative comes to a close: a great success
The Presepe Pride initiative by the newspaper concludes successfully, with a significant number of submitted photographs showcasing people's nativity scenes, highlighting public support for Christmas traditions.
In Spain, it's the Three Wise Men, but who delivers gifts in other countries?
In Spain, the tradition states that the Three Wise Men deliver gifts to children on January 5th, but other countries have different iconic figures for Christmas gift-giving.
By ski, by boat or by helicopter: how the Three Wise Men arrive in different cities
The article explores the various festive traditions surrounding the arrival of the Three Wise Men on January 5th, showcasing how cities celebrate with parades that unite families and honor a cherished holiday tradition.
Karol Nawrocki changes the Presidential Palace. Introduced a new custom
Karol Nawrocki has implemented significant changes at the Presidential Palace, including the removal of the Round Table and the introduction of a Christmas crib for the first time outside the building.
Happy New Year Santa Claus, but... who are you with really?
The article discusses the enigmatic identity of Santa Claus and who he is associated with during the holiday season.
What is the most popular Christmas song in history?
The article discusses the enduring popularity of Christmas music, particularly focusing on Mariah Carey and her iconic song that marks the beginning of the holiday season each year.
Are today's children losing ancient Christmas traditions, such as asking for aguinaldo?
The article discusses the impact of globalization and social changes on the preservation of ancient Christmas traditions in Spain, particularly the tradition of asking for aguinaldo.
The obvious and the possible
The festive period from Christmas to Epiphany is characterized by a contrast between a relaxed domestic atmosphere and a bustling market, where holiday indulgences coexist with work obligations.
The story of the 'true' Santa Claus and his Greek roots
The article explores the origins and evolution of the Santa Claus figure, tracing his development from European traditions to the modern depiction known today.
The recao or del conde: the perfect Murcian dessert to sweeten Christmas
This article highlights the importance of sweets like tortas de recao in Murcian Christmas traditions, emphasizing their role in festive celebrations.
Shops were closed on Christmas Eve, but what about New Year’s Eve? A shopping surprise
As the end of 2025 approaches, many Poles are curious whether shops will be open for New Year’s Eve shopping to prepare for celebrations with family and friends.
The Union of Roma in Croatia on Driving Away Trumpeters: Christmas Belongs to Us
The Roma Union in Croatia speaks out against the exclusion of Roma trumpeters during Christmas festivities, highlighting their right to participate in cultural traditions despite accusations of inappropriate performances.
Embracing strangers, not even at Christmas: does consent clash with traditions for children?
The article discusses the clash between traditional practices of physical affection towards children and modern consent guidelines emerging in countries like Spain, the UK, and Australia.
'My brother gave me skates for Christmas.' The oldest Czech woman celebrated her 108th birthday, Christmas has supposedly not changed much
A 108-year-old Czech woman reflects on her long life and shares that Christmas traditions have remained largely unchanged.
Our singer revealed what living faith means to her: 'God always showed that He has a better plan for me'
Singer Jelena Žnidarić, known as Zsa Zsa, shared her perspective on living in faith, emphasizing her love for Christmas traditions and the family-oriented nature of the holiday.
Brits reveal exactly how they spend 'twixmas' - but what is it?
A study shows that many Brits feel they waste the 'Twixmas' period between Christmas and New Year, primarily engaging in activities like binge-watching television and eating leftovers.
Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr: the feast, the rites, and the traditions of December 26
Saint Stephen, recognized as the first martyr in Christian tradition, is commemorated on December 26, following Christmas, with significant liturgical importance across various Christian denominations.
Why is Saint Stephen celebrated in Catalonia?
The article explores the historical significance and unique customs of celebrating Saint Stephen in Catalonia, highlighting local traditions such as the feast of cannelloni and the leisurely family gatherings that follow Christmas.
Poles hung ornaments with images of the deceased on Christmas trees. A priest comments
The article discusses a growing interest in Christmas ornaments featuring images of the deceased, reflecting people's desire to symbolically include their loved ones during the holiday season.
Can you drink alcohol on Christmas Eve? The answer from a well-known priest may surprise many
The article discusses the traditions of Christmas Eve in Poland, addressing whether alcohol can be consumed during the festive celebrations, with insights from a well-known priest.
They no longer want Grandfather Frost. More and more Ukrainians are fleeing to European Christmases
In 2023, Ukraine officially adopted December 25 as its main Christmas holiday, moving away from the January 7 celebrations, leading many Ukrainians to experience Christmas with western traditions amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Was Santa Claus once a goddess? Where do the holidays come from
The article explores the multicultural origins of Christmas traditions, including the use of greenery, mistletoe, and the figure of Santa Claus who travels in reindeer-pulled sleighs.
From Manuel Jabois to Leila Guerriero: 26 Christmas stories written by EL PAÍS's signatures over the years
This article compiles 26 Christmas stories by renowned EL PAÍS writers, offering diverse perspectives on holiday traditions and the spirit of the season.