In early American history, Christmas was not always a celebrated holiday as it is now, and was even outlawed by the Puritans in Boston from 1659-1681. In fact, the first session of Congress was held on Christmas Day in 1789. December 25th was not declared a federal in the United States until 1870.
With so many immigrants creating American’s melting pot it is difficult to determine which traditions are truly American. Most Christmas traditions are a mixture of Irish, Polish, English, and Belgian combined with several other countries. One of the most prominent commonalities across cultures and traditions is family togetherness. This is true even among some non-Christians today who celebrate Christmas as a secular holiday.
Early European settlers brought many traditions to the United States colonizing the South East. Settlers would send Christmas greetings to other colonies by discharging firearms and fireworks into the night sky. Today, Christmas celebrations vary greatly between regions of the United States due to the variety of nationalities that have immigrated here.
In Alaska, a star placed on top of a pole is taken from door to door and is followed by Herod’s Men, who try to capture the star as they sing carols waiting to be invited in for supper.
In Washington D.C., a huge, spectacular tree is lit ceremoniously by the President of the United States. For many families, having a Christmas Trees is an important tradition. Trees can be real or store bought and often decorated with ornaments that have been collected from generation to generation. Often, ornaments can show the heritage of a family or places that they have traveled.
In Arizona, the Mexican ritual called Las Posadas continues today. This is a ritual procession and play represents the search of Mary and Joseph for a room. Families play the parts and visit each other’s homes re-enacting the story while looking at each family’s crib.
In Hawaii, Christmas begins with the coming of the Christmas Tree Ship that brings Christmas trees. These trees must be refrigerated and are of limited quantity. On Christmas Day, under the sunny skies Santa Claus arrives by boat to a large ceremony, and Christmas dinner is eaten outdoors. Many pictures of Santa Clause in Hawaii show Santa Arriving on a Canoe being pulled by dolphins.
In Colorado, an enormous star is placed on the top of a mountain during the holiday season, and can be seen for many miles. All across the United States, Christmas Trees are often topped with angels or stars symbolizing different aspects of the birth of Christ. A common secular option is a large bow with streamers.
Whether you practice these traditions or create your own, remember that Christmas is a time for being with family and friends. At North Raleigh Florist we know how important traditions and family are. We are here to help you celebrate with your family near or far by creating a unique table centerpiece or arrangement using the freshest flowers and Christmas greens. We also have Poinsettias, Christmas Cactuses, and Paper White plants available. Call us today to order an arrangement or plant for yourself, a family member, or a loved one you cannot be near this holiday season.
Happy Holidays from North Raleigh Florist!
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