Christmas 2021: 10 things you did not know about the festival

The bright, golden star that often goes on top of the Christmas tree symbolises the star of Bethlehem that guided the three kings to the place of birth of Lord Jesus. 

The colour red symbolises the blood of Lord Jesus that was shed when he died on the cross. It is represented through Santa's red attire, cherries and other red ornaments.

These are more than just a treat for the kids. The candy canes symbolise the shepherd's hook, crook. The white colour symbolises purity while the red stands for Lord Jesus' blood.

This plant is seen as a symbol of fertility and love, giving rise to the custom of kissing under the mistletoe.

The colour green symbolises the presence of life amid the white winters when Lord Jesus was born. It is represented through the holly leaves, evergreen Christmas tree, etc.

The gifts hung on the christmas tree and the tradition of giving and receiving gifts comes from history. It symbolises the gifts the three wise men carried for baby Jesus when he was born.

The thorny holly leaves remind the people of the crown of thorns worn by Lord Jesus when he was crucified and the berries represent his blood.

It was believed that ringing bells drove out evil spirits and they were also rung to make important announcements. On Christmas day, the symbolic bells remind people of the time actual bells were rung to announce the birth of Lord Jesus.

According to a legend, Saint Nicholas put gold into the stockings hung by the fireplace to dry in a poor man's house who was in need of money but refused to accept charity. Hence starting the tradition of gifts in stockings on Christmas.

The round wreath represents the never-ending, unbroken circle of God's eternal love and also symbolises rebirth and the salvation Lord Jesus brought to the world.