Christmas Around the World
December 18, 2017
"Buon Natale, Feliz Navidad, and Froliche Weihnachten" from the Third Grade class. At the beginning of December we packed our suitcase applied for a passport, and grabbed our map as we headed around the world to learn about Christmas traditions in other countries.
We discovered that many of our Christmas traditions originated in Germany, Italy, and Mexico. The Christmas tree, poinsettia, and the manger scene have all filtered into our own personal traditions.
Our favorite gift-giver was a kind old witch from Italy, named La Befana. She rides her broomstick on the eve of Three Kings Day looking for the Christ Child. When she peeks into the bedroom of a good boy or girl she wonders if that is the Christ Child. She leaves special gifts, just in case.
Although it was nice to visit other countries, it was comforting to be home and prepare to celebrate our own traditions.
We want to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.