American Christmas traditions blend customs from European countries like Ireland, Austria, Poland and Belgium. Families gather together and Christians see it as one of the holiest days to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Decorating Christmas trees with generational ornaments representing family heritage is important, as is lighting displays on homes and in neighborhoods depicting figures like Santa, snowmen and Nativity scenes. Churches play a role through special services and events that bring community members together, while families typically enjoy meals including turkey, potatoes and dessert on Christmas Day.

2. A typical Christmas celebration in
America mix Irish, Austrian, Polish
and Belgian traditions into something
that is its own.

3. For many Americans and Poles,
Christmas is one of the most joyous
times of the year. It’s a time for families
and friends to gather together, and for
many Christians it is one of the holiest
days of the year.

4. *The Christmas Tree
The Christmas tree plays an important
part in the holiday tradition. Many
family trees have ornaments from
more than one generation. Often
times the heritage of the families are
represented by the kind of
decorations on the trees. Lights are a
must and the more the better. The
tree is often placed so that it can be
viewed by passers-by in the street.
Many living or family rooms are on the
street-side in American homes.

5. Some form of lighting are often
used on the homes and in the
yards during the holidays. There
are snowmen, Santas, manger
scenes, snowflakes, reindeer, and
other lighted displays in many
neighborhoods. There is
sometimes a creche placed that
represents the stable wherein the
Christ child was born and has
Mary, Joseph, the Child and
various animals in attendance.

6. Food plays an important part in
the American Christmas. Many
families serve a variety of
menus for Christmas dinner,
the standard fare seems to
include turkey, dressing,
potatoes, gravy, cranberry
sauce, vegetables, a salad and
some sort of dessert.

7. Various churches play an important part in the
American Christmas. Many families feel that it is
important to go to church on Christmas. There are also
a variety of associated activities such as church
dinners, live Nativity scenes, choir concerts, special
church services, and a fostering of the spirit of giving
to those less fortunate.

8. Thank you for watching!
With Christmas
greetings and all good
wishes for the New
Year to you all!