Christmas is celebrated across most of the countries around the world on 25th December every year to mark the birth of Jesus of Nazareth. It is preceded by Christmas Eve on December 24. In many countries, the day following Christmas Day is called 'Boxing Day'. This word derived from the traditional custom which started long time back in the Middle Ages around 800 years ago. That was the time when churces would open their 'Alms Boxes' (boxes in which people had placed gifts of money and donations) and distribute the contents to poor and needy people in the neighbourhood on the day after Christmas. The tradition of giving gifts to delivery workers, children continues today. Christmas traditions include the display of Nativity scenes, Christmas trees, the exchange of gifts and cards, and the arrival of Father Christmas (Santa Claus) on Christmas Eve. Popular Christmas themes include the promotion of goodwill, giving, compassion, and quality family time.
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