Observed on December 25th each year, Christmas is celebrated by many Christians and non-Christians alike.
With a history dating back two millennia, Christmas is a time for those of the Christian faith to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the central spiritual figure of their religion. Christians attend religious services in churches, and many also celebrate the holiday with festive, secular activities. These include parties and tasty feasts, trimming the Christmas tree, and gift giving between friends, family, and of course, Santa Claus – also known as Sinterklaas, Father Christmas, Kris Kringle, or jolly, old Saint Nick!
To learn all about Christmas and get in the holiday spirit, check out the videos, family-friendly books, activities, and recipes below!
Learn About the Holiday
Oh Christmas Tree
Grades 6-8
Did you know North Carolina ranks #2 in the nation in Christmas tree production? Learn how scientists are studying what effect a warming climate will have on North Carolina’s Christmas tree industry.
Christmas Traditions | Religion and Ethics Weekly
Grades 6-12
Many of the best known Christmas traditions were actually adapted from pagan practices and given new Christian meanings. Learn how common concepts that are closely attached to Christmas — like Christmas trees, mistletoe, and even what day it falls on — are borrowed from various pagan belief systems.
Is Santa Real? (A Scientific Analysis) | It’s Okay to Be Smart
Grades 6-12
Ever wonder how Santa could possibly manage to deliver all those presents in a single night? Or what gives red-nosed reindeer the ability to fly? And why do your Christmas lights get tangled in knots no matter how carefully you put the away?! Check out this video from It’s Okay to Be Smart to find out the science behind these holiday mysteries.
Activities, Books and Recipes
Thumbprint Holiday Lights
Grades PreK-3
Deck the halls of your holiday celebration with these easy-to-make painted paper lights.
Heartwarming Christmas Books for Kids
Grades PreK-5
Whether your family unwraps a new book for the 12 days of Christmas or enjoys the classic ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas tale, books are often a big part of the season. This Christmas season, explore this list of new — or new to you — Christmas books for children ages 1-10.
Family Reindeer Ornaments
Grades PreK-5
Turn your family into reindeer ornaments and decorate the tree together with this easy Christmas craft for kids.
DIY PBS Kids Wrapping Paper
Grades PreK-5
This printable wrapping paper is perfect for any PBS KIDS fan! Find wrapping paper featuring characters from your favorite PBS KIDS shows that you can color, decorate and wrap your presents with.
Celebrate Nochebuena With These Puerto Rican Christmas Foods
All Ages
Keeping Nochebuena traditions alive through generations is fun for the whole family, especially with a few delicious Puerto Rican Christmas foods.