Haley Ruyle
hruyle@lc.edu
It’s December, and it’s also everyone’s favorite time of the year because it’s the month that hosts Christmas.
However, I’m not here to talk about Christmas. I’m here to talk about a few alternate holidays during December that are all ignored, due to the fact that Christmas likes to steal the spotlight at this festive time of the year.
One of the first holidays people don’t remember about is Yule. Yule, or Yuletide, is a Pagan holiday and is widely celebrated in Nordic Countries, who worship the God Odin. On the night of the Winter Solstice, also known as Dec. 21, Pagans decorate their house with Yule logs and the famous Yule bows.
The second holiday that also happens around this time is Kwanzaa. During the last week of December, many people with African heritage celebrate Kwanzaa. Kwanzaa is about celebrating the African culture through feast and gift-giving, much like Christmas, only it lasts slightly longer.
Finally, the last alternate holiday is Hanukkah, Hanukkah is a very famous Jewish holiday based on the legend of when oil that could only last for one night instead lasted for eight days after the Jews prayed to God. With the very popular icons, the dreidel symbolizing the joy and fun in the spirit of Hanukkah, and the menorah symbolizing Judaism. With these icons, Hanukkah then becomes a fun and bright holiday.
All of these alternate holidays may not be as popular as Christmas, but it doesn’t change that it brings just as much joy and love into the loving homes all around the world. That’s what truly matters most of all. Any and all alternate holidays, popular or not, as long as we stick true to our beliefs, love what we care about, hold what is dear to our hearts, and surround ourselves with joy and love, then it doesn’t matter which holiday you celebrate. Because love is the true meaning of these holidays this winter season, the spirit of love and giving back!
I hope all of these alternate December holidays if you prefer to celebrate them, bring you great joy and happiness during the winter season. Happy holidays! Whether it be Christmas, Yule, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or another holiday. I hope everyone enjoys their winter break, and I will see you all next spring!
