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Twelve Days of Christmas and How to Celebrate ItThe Twelve Days of Christmas is the period of time that occurs starting with Christmas day and continuing on through to the first week of January. The 12 Days of Christmas does not occur the 12 days prior to Christmas. The period before Christmas is known as Advent.Christmastide is another name for this time period. The celebrations and traditions that take place during this time period vary slightly. It depends on the denomination of your church as well as where you live in the world. Each denomination and culture has different beliefs on how the time period should be celebrated. For example, some traditions celebrate the twelve days of Christmas from Christmas day until January 5th. Other traditions celebrate it starting on Christmas evening until January 6th. The twelve days of Christmas signifies the travel of the 3 Kings from the east to go see Jesus. When the Kings discovered that Jesus was born, they decided to travel to Bethlehem to see him. They brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh with them. When it comes down to the giving of gifts there are several different philosophies behind when gifts should be given during this time period. Some people believe that gifts should be given on Christmas day. Others believe that you should give gifts only on the 12th day of Christmas. Still others believe that you should give gifts on each of the 12 days of Christmas. This holiday period has a number of different ways that you can celebrate it. Many people celebrate it by lighting candles for the 12 days. For example, on each day of the 12 days, they light a candle to represent the progression of the Christmastide season. Christmas dinner is also a significant part of the 12 days. The way dinner is treated varies as well. Some groups of people have their major Christmas dinner on Christmas day itself. Others have their major dinner on the 12th day of Christmas. Still others have a feast every day of the 12 days. Another important aspect of the holiday is the 12 days of Christmas song that enjoys worldwide popularity. This song talks about the different gifts that the recipient receives during this time period from his or her “true love.” It has been hotly debated as to whether there is any hidden meaning behind this song. There are some people who believe that this song actually makes hidden references to different aspects of the Christian faith. They believe the song was created to help believers remember the key aspects of their faith. Others believe that this is simply an urban myth. Regardless of what you believe on how the twelve days of Christmas should be celebrated, it can be an incredible opportunity for you to gather with your friends and family and have fun. You can choose the best way to celebrate it based on your own beliefs and convictions about the holiday season. Kerry Beck offers free advent calendars with daily Christmas activities to prepare you for Christmas. You’ll learn more about holiday traditions with some of the daily activities. You can get her FREE Advent Countdown at http://www.ChristmasCelebrationIdeas.com ——————– about Kerry Beck 5:45 PM - Dec. 2, 2008 - post comment
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Description Teaching Teens Blog is designed to encourage parents who are raising teenagers. Not only will we address academics, but also practical life skills, spiritual issues and entrepreneurial ideas for teens. Home User Profile Archives Recent Entries - Do You Have Your Advent Calendar Yet? - The Meaning of The 12 Days of Christmas - Start School Right This Year! (TONIGHT!) - Learning Strategies As Your Children Grow More Independent - Best Teaching Technique for High School Homeschool |