The first recorded incidence of Christmas being celebrated dates back to the Roman Empire in 336 AD, during the time of the Roman Emperor Constantine.
Others suggest it’s linked to the ancient Roman pagan midwinter festivals Saturnalia (which honoured the Roman god Saturn) and Dies Natalis Solis Invicti (the festival marking the solstice).
This date is also cited as the day of God’s creation of Adam, and therefore would have been a fitting date to choose for celebrating Christ’s conception.
The big day is finally upon us, complete with presents, food and drink, and the Gavin & Stacey Christmas special.
OK, so Christmas as we know it didn’t come into being the second Jesus was born.
