WHAT'S ACTUALLY SPECIAL ABOUT CHRISTMAS

Every year, as December rolls around, the world seems to shift into a completely different mood. Streets light up, stores decorate every inch of their windows, and people suddenly become obsessed with finding "the perfect gift."

- By Yashmitha Sritheran

But beyond the glitter, shopping deals, and holiday playlists on repeat, many people still pause and wonder: What is actually special about Christmas? Why does this one day have the power to shape an entire season and influence cultures across the world?

The truth is, Christmas isn't just a holiday, it's a unique blend of history, tradition, emotion, and community. And that mix is what gives it its real magic.

Christmas today feels modern and commercial, but its roots go back thousands of years. Even before it became a Christian holiday, many ancient communities celebrated the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, as a sign that brighter days were coming. Cultures around the world lit fires, exchanged gifts, and celebrated together. Over time, these traditions were woven into Christmas, blending history, myth, and folklore into a holiday that feels familiar to people everywhere, regardless of background.

So, what's special about Christmas today isn't just its religious meaning for some, but also the layers of traditions that have built up over centuries. Every time people decorate a tree or hang lights, they're participating in customs that have travelled through history.

One of the strongest reasons Christmas feels special is the sense of togetherness it inspires. Even if you don't celebrate it religiously, you can't deny the shift in atmosphere. Schools close, workplaces slow down, and families make an effort to gather. In a world that often feels busier than ever, Christmas gives people permission to pause.