Tag: Christmas traditions

According to liturgical calendars, Western Christianity observes a special period of eight days known as the Christmas Octave, during which feasting is encouraged. The question, 'Do we fast after Christmas?' reveals a key difference between Western traditions that celebrate with joy and certain Eastern Orthodox practices that include specific, albeit contrasting, fasts during the surrounding season.

Globally, Christmas dinner traditions vary immensely, with many European cultures hosting their main festive meal on Christmas Eve, while English-speaking countries typically reserve the grand roast for Christmas Day. This difference is rooted in a mix of cultural heritage, religious practices, and modern family logistics, dictating both the timing and the composition of holiday meals.