December is known around the world as a family time of celebration honoring cultures, religions and traditions that have been with humanity for hundreds of years. Below are a few weird and wonderful facts about this magical month!
- An almanac prediction states that if snow falls on Christmas Day, Easter will be warm, green and sunny.
- The name December comes from the Latin decem for “ten”, as it was the 10th month in the Roman Calendar.
- The term Yuletide comes from a Norse tradition of cutting and burning a tree to bring in the Winter Solstice. This was to last through 12 days – later known as the 12 days of Christmas.
- December 12th is Poinsettia Day.
- Saint Nickolas, who would eventually be called Santa Claus, was originally the patron saint of children, thieves and pawnbrokers.
- Decembers birthstone is turquoise which represents prosperity, success and good fortune.
- The first artificial Christmas tree was made in Germany, fashioned out of goose feathers that are dyed green.
- Spiders and spider webs are considered good luck on Christmas.
- “Jingle bells” was composed in 1857, and not for Christmas – it was meant to be a Thanksgiving song.
- An ancient legend states that forest animals can speak in human language on Christmas Eve!
Everyone at Lifecare Family Health & Dental Center wishes you a wonderful December!