2. Festivals of Light Around the World

Much has changed since the first Winter solstice celebration that was held four thousand years ago. It's evolved, been reinvented, and renamed. We've modernized it, personalized it, added new traditions, and spread it throughout the world. Yet one thing remains constant: No matter how you look at it, the winter holidays still revolve around the balance between light and dark. Each one of them is still, in its own special way, a festival that bids adieu to darkness and welcomes the light - the light that warms our spirits, rejuvenates our bodies, and shows us the way on our personal paths.

 

Wooden Lodge Window
with Christmas Tree

CHRISTMAS (December 25)

Originally intended as a religious holiday to blend in with the Pagan Sun-welcoming rituals and commemorate the birth of the Christ-child, this festival was purposely placed within the Winter Solstice celebration time frame. Aside from the incorporation of Christendom's Holy Family, most of this festival still retains its original Pagan roots. Traditions vary from country to country, but nearly all cultures incorporate trees, decorations, feasting, gift-giving, goodwill, a Santa figure and, of course, lights of some sort.
Other festivals of light include Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Yule.

3. Christmas Activities for 1st & 2nd ESO Students

Dear 1st & 2nd ESO students,
Please, watch the following presentation with all the Xmas. activities which you'll be doing these days. Take into account that each time you see a link you must STOP the presentation. Ready? Then, go ahead!

5. Australian Christmas Pudding

You will need:
A large container of vanilla ice cream; 1 tsp. cinnamon; 1 tbsp. each of: raisins, candied cherries, prunes, pineapple, crystallized ginger, lemon or orange peel, and unsalted mixed nuts.
1. Spoon the ice cream into a bowl. Leave until slightly soft.
2. Chop up the fruit and nuts, and mix into the ice cream. Stir in the cinnamon.
3. Put into a round, deep bowl.
4. Cover with foil, and freeze for two hours or until needed.
Loosen the sides, and serve on a plate. YUMMY!

6. John Lewis Christmas 2011 Advert

Would you like to see the new John Lewis Christmas 2011 tv ad and its making?
I'm sure you'll love it! It's very emotive and captivating, one of the most brilliant Christmas ads ever!
 John Lewis Christmas 2011 TV Advert
The Making of John Lewis Christmas 2011 TV Advert