British Christmas Traditions

Front

What is Boxing Day?

Back

Boxing Day is a public holiday the day after Christmas, originally created for tradespeople to receive gifts.

Front

What is a tradition involving Christmas pudding?

Back

A silver coin is placed in the Christmas pudding, and finding it is said to bring luck.

Front

Why do people in the UK eat turkey on Christmas Day?

Back

Turkeys were introduced in the 16th century, and people began eating them because they needed to save their chickens for eggs.

Front

When do people in the UK typically give Christmas presents?

Back

Presents are usually given and opened on the 25th of December.

Front

What are Christmas crackers?

Back

Christmas crackers are festive decorations that are pulled apart to reveal a small gift, a party hat, and a joke.

Front

What are mince pies?

Back

Mince pies are small pastries filled with currants and dried fruit, traditionally left out for Father Christmas.

Front

What is a Christmas pantomime?

Back

A Christmas pantomime, or 'panto,' is a musical comedy show that families often attend during the Christmas season.

Front

What is the significance of the King/Queen's Speech?

Back

The King or Queen's Speech has been a tradition since 1932, where the monarch addresses the nation on Christmas Day.

Front

What is the shoebox donation tradition?

Back

The tradition involves filling shoeboxes with gifts for less fortunate children, started in 1990 by Dave Cooke.

Front

What do children hang on Christmas Eve?

Back

Children hang stockings on their fireplaces for Santa Claus to fill with presents.