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 and activities, and delicious recipes below!
Learn About the Holiday
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.
Nativity Scene Tradition | Religion and Ethics Weekly
Grades 6-12
All over the world and in almost every culture, the tradition of displaying scenes from the birth of Jesus has become a cherished part of the holiday season. There is even a group dedicated to keeping this Christmas tradition alive.
Why Does Santa Wear Red? | Origin of Everything
Grades 9-12
It’s the holiday season and we all know that means seeing old St. Nick in his big red suit. But have you ever stopped to wonder why he doesn’t wear any other color? Because he used to be seen wearing blue suits, purple suits, yellow suits and sometimes he was even skinny! So how did we end up a jolly bearded Santa who only dresses in red? Watch the episode to find out.
Activities, Books and Recipes
Decorate-by-Letter Christmas Tree
Grades PreK-1
Does your child love color-by-number coloring activities? In this activity you’ll use that same idea to help your child practice identifying letters while decorating your Christmas tree.
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.
Eco-Friendly Holiday Lanterns
Grades PreK-5
This holiday season, spruce up your Christmas tree by decorating it with homemade ornaments! Recycle cardboard tubes to add a lovely and safe lantern to your holiday decor with this simple DIY craft.
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.
Make Budín de Pan: A Nochebuena Tradition!
All Ages
This recipe for Puerto Rican bread pudding, or Budín de pan, is a festive way to celebrate Nochebuena on Christmas Eve — and it can be adapted to your family’s tastes.