Here at We Are Brag, we know that Christmas isn’t just a season — it’s a whole mood. The twinkling lights, the smell of cinnamon, the endless hunt for the perfect gift (don’t worry, we’ve got you covered) — it’s pure magic.

But have you ever wondered how this wonderfully chaotic holiday started? Let’s take a little sleigh ride through time and unwrap the story of how Christmas became the sparkle-filled celebration we know today.

Long Before Santa: Ancient Winter Celebrations

Long before Santa was making lists or Rudolph was guiding sleighs, people were already finding ways to brighten up the darkest time of year.

• The Romans celebrated Saturnalia, a week of feasting, gift-giving, and general mischief in honour of the god Saturn.

• The Norse in Scandinavia had Yule, where they burned giant logs and toasted the return of the sun — and yes, that’s where the “Yule log” comes from.

• Even the Egyptians got in on the fun, celebrating the sun god Ra as the days started getting longer again.

In other words: humans have always known that winter calls for candles, celebration, and maybe a cheeky glass of something warm.

The Birth of Christmas

When Christianity spread through the Roman Empire, church leaders decided to mark the birth of Jesus Christ — and conveniently picked December 25, right around those existing winter festivals.

It was a brilliant idea: everyone could keep their feasts, lights, and gatherings, but now with a brand-new reason to celebrate. Slowly but surely, Christmas took root as one of the world’s most cherished holidays.

Medieval Merriment (and a Few Party Poopers)

By the Middle Ages, Christmas had become a lively mix of church services, feasts, and general merrymaking — basically one long holiday party. But not everyone loved the fun. During the 1600s, some rather serious folk tried to tone things down (yes, Christmas was banned for a while in England and parts of America).

Thankfully, festive spirits proved hard to snuff out — and we’re grateful, because a world without Christmas cheer? No thank you.

The Victorian Glow-Up

It was during the Victorian era that Christmas transformed into the cozy, heartwarming celebration we love today.

Queen Victoria and Prince Albert made Christmas trees fashionable. Charles Dickens taught us about kindness and generosity in A Christmas Carol. And over in America, Santa Claus was reimagined as the jolly, red-suited gift-bringer we all know and love.

Basically, Christmas got a full-on makeover — one that still inspires how we celebrate (and gift) today.

A Global Celebration

Every corner of the world has its own way to celebrate:

• Germany: Charming Christmas markets and advent calendars.

• Mexico: Las Posadas — nine nights of candlelit processions and parties.

• The Philippines: The world’s longest Christmas season — starting in September!

• Japan: Lights, romance, and festive fried chicken (yes, really).

No matter where you are, it’s all about warmth, connection, and spreading joy — something we at We Are Brag take pretty seriously (especially when it involves gifting).

From Ancient Fires to Modern Gifts

From ancient solstice bonfires to beautifully wrapped presents under the tree, Christmas has always been about bringing light to the dark — and sharing love in the simplest of ways.

So as you deck the halls and sip your hot chocolate this season, remember: you’re part of a tradition that’s thousands of years old… and still going strong.

And if you’re looking to add a little brag-worthy sparkle to your holiday gifts this year — well, you know where to find us.

Merry Christmas from all of us at We Are Brag!