December Holidays

The holiday season has officially kicked-off with Thanksgiving dinner already under our belts. Thanks to holidays like Christmas and Hanukkah, December stays jam-packed with parties and festive get-togethers. Got all your holiday festivities planned out? Or do you need a little reminder of all the holidays you get to look forward to this month? Check out all the holiday fun and observances you can take part in this December!

World AIDS Day - December 1st

Today an estimated 33 million people are living with HIV. You can do your part by learning more about the disease and helping others understand what it's all about. This year's campaign is focused on leadership and is designed to help encourage leadership on AIDS within all levels and sectors of society. So, if you only do one thing on this December 1st, pin on a red ribbon to show your support.

Hanukkah - December 21st - 29th

Hanukkah, which is the Hebrew word for dedication, honors the victory of the Jews over the Greek Syrians in 165 BC. After their victory, the Maccabees, sons of the family that led the revolt, entered the Holy Temple in Jerusalem and dedicated it to the service of their God. When the Maccabees entered the temple, they found only enough lamp oil to last one night, but the oil somehow managed to burn for the whole eight days it took to go in search for more oil. Therefore, Hanukkah is observed over eight days. Do you celebrate Hanukkah?

Winter Solstice - December 21st

Winter solstice is the beginning of winter. It's also the shortest day of the year. Because of the earth's tilt, the Northern Hemisphere is as far away from the sun as it can be. Therefore, the first day of winter has the shortest amount of sunlight. In 2007, the winter solstice falls on December 21st.

Christmas Day - December 25th

Christmas is a Christian holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. No one knows the exact date of Christ's birth but in the 4th Century, Pope Julius I chose December 25th as the day of celebration. It's a holiday that's celebrated in a variety of ways around the world. In recent times, Christmas has become a holiday that is largely commercial, with everyone eagerly anticipating the arrival of St. Nick. What's your fave thing about Christmas? .

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Read more: Behind the Holiday