Christmas is described as a festive season therefore we should all engage in activities during the season that provide entertainment, merriment and which give pleasure. Because Christmas is about celebration, many types of festivities can be found to suit all preferences to make the season a joyful one.

A readily available option is watching Christmas movies. This can be done from the comfort of home or by spending a few hours out at the theater. A wonderful option now available for obtaining movies is to rent them via the Internet. It’s an option that allows you to get any movie you want to see – whether traditional, popular or a remake of an original title. There’s also fairly easy access to obscure movie titles, as well as movies with holiday or Christmas themes.

Although Christmas movies embody the spirit of the season, you can also take time out during Christmas to enjoy new releases that may or may not have a holiday theme. Christmas is a good time to catch notable new releases because they are  timed to be shown in theaters before the end of the year to be considered for prestigious Oscar nominations.

Performances of Christmas plays that depict the Nativity scene are also another popular entertainment during Christmas. Although these performances are done year after year, they never grow old because of creative difference in interpreting the story, and also in how each role is acted by different actors every year.

The dramatization of the Nativity demonstrates the meaning of Christmas and can also simplify the meaning of Christmas for children. Participation in the Nativity is also an important activity for children in drama groups at schools and church groups.  Along with depicting the meaning of Christmas, the Nativity play also portrays moral lessons that can serve as an inspiration for the way to become a more spiritual person and to live a better life. Watching or taking part in the Nativity play at Christmas time can therefore affect your attitude and outlook on life.

Musical entertainment at Christmas can come from pausing during shopping to listen to a choral group at the mall or downtown. It can also be entertaining to simply hum along to a Christmas carol or song being played on the radio. Carols as a tradition at Christmas is said to originate in England and France in the Middle Ages. At the time, carols were dances accompanied by singing. The tradition that Anglo-Saxons preferred was to have small choirs gather on the village green and sing carols and Christmas songs to passersby. Over time, the meaning of the word changed to refer to only certain types of songs. The tradition of carols is also believed to evolve from the angels, shepherds and Wise Men who bowed down to sing praises and to worship Baby Jesus.

For those who are really lovers of the arts, professional groups like Orchestras, Symphonies, Conservatories and Choirs also offer splendid concerts during Christmas. They will also sing Christmas carols and songs. But the harmony of their voices accompanied by a full compliment of instruments provides a richer and more melodious rendition of the carols that is unlikely to be heard anywhere else.

Probably the most popular festivities at Christmas are parties, which seem to happen everywhere all the time at Christmas. There are parties at work, home, with friends and class parties at school. Even social hubs such as bars may have special nights with different food and lower-priced drinks during Christmas.

It seems there is no end to the festivities during Christmas. It’s always important however to have a good time, to remember the unfortunate and to reach out to them and to have fun but in a responsible manner.

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The tradition of caroling and Christmas carols is believed to have originated in England when wandering musicians would go from town to town and visit castles and other homes of the rich to give impromptu performances. But there also is the belief that singing carols at Christmas likely came from the group of angels, shepherds and Wise Men who visited Jesus at his birth, because they worshiped the holy child, sang and proclaim praises unto Him. And after their visit, they continued their proclamations in the street.

The origin of the word carol however, is thought to come from the word ‘caroller,’ which is a French word that describes a circle dance with singers. And from the twelfth through the fourteenth centuries, the carol was highly popular as a dance song. The use of carols then evolved to festivals where they were sung as processional songs and others were used as part of religious mystery plays in Europe.

Some traditional qualities of a carol was that the words expressed should celebrate a topic that was seasonal, have verses and a chorus arranged alternately and have music that was suitable for dancing.

Although many of the carols that are now popular at Christmas time are very old, there are others from earlier times that didn’t survive. During the 17th century when the Protestants, led by Oliver Cromwell were in power in England, many Christmas caros were banned and consequently some were never heard again. The Christmas carols that survived the Protestant Reformation period didn’t become very popular again until the mid-19th century to the start of the 20th century.

Many of the Christmas carols that were banned, and early Christmas carols in general, had lyrics that expressed joyous and merry themes instead of the serious somber words found in church hymns. During the time when carols were banned, some composers and musicians wrote non-religious songs that had highly varied choral music, which they called carols, for Christmas. After Christmas carols again became popular, many of those songs were re-arranged with new Christian lyrics and used by the church.

Making changes to Christmas carols continues in a different way today with pop artistes singing the carols to different tunes and melodies to give them a style that characterizes the particular artiste. Having Christmas carols with tunes of contemporary or popular music of today means that they are also more likely to survive because younger listeners will be interested in hearing any music that is done by their favorite or other popular singers.

The popularity of Christmas carols in the United States increased in the 19th century, as it did in England, because many of the traditions related to Christmas came to the United States from England. The United States and England also have closely linked religious observances, which also accounts for the popularity and similarity of Christmas carols that are enjoyed in both countries.

Today, radio stations are the first to play Christmas carols, usually starting toward mid-November, to signal the coming season.  At the start of December when the Christmas season official begins, mall stores and other retail establishments will begin to pipe Christmas carols and songs through their places of business.

The singing of carols at churches, schools, and by groups performing at malls usually will be a common sight starting in early to mid-December. Carol singing as a part of Nativity plays and concerts at churches and schools is usually in full swing by mid-December as the Christmas season gets into high gear and the countdown to Christmas Day begins.

Whether it’s the traditional tune or popular makeovers of Christmas carols that you enjoy, listening to them is part of an old Christmas tradition. And any version of a Christmas carol that is played will serve the purpose of putting you in a festive mood for Christmas that you may even want to dance, just like the music of original carols was meant to do.

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Christmas is a special time of the year for the joy and intangible magic that fills the season. It comes through in the delightful Christmas decorations, glorious get-togethers with family and friends and the sheer feeling of joy one gets from giving and receiving gifts.

Although the commercialization of Christmas is often decried, shopping is an important and central activity to some of the intangible magic of Christmas. It is at the malls or downtown stores that some of the favorite sights, sounds and scents of Christmas can be experienced.

The decorations at Malls and retail establishments are usually very fanciful and eye-catching, especially to children, with the many colorful and twinkling lights. It’s also a wonder for both adults and children alike to look at the numerous tinsels, baubles and figurines such as fairies, angels and little babies that adorn the main Christmas tree in the center of shopping malls and others in department stores. These trees are usually extremely well embellished with decorations that are arranged in a very professional way that most shoppers can’t replicate in their own homes. It’s therefore a delight for them to stare at such trees in wonder and amazement.

Along with the wide variety of decorations in retail establishments, there also is the sound of music playing, bells ringing, the laughter and wishes of Merry Christmas from shoppers that also create a special atmosphere and add to the magic of Christmas. Even the sound of cash registers in the background adds something to the special feeling shoppers have at Christmas time.

And of course there’s always a Santa Claus that children can meet and tell what they want for Christmas, and also have their picture taken. Sometimes Santa Claus may distribute Christmas gifts to children, telling them that because they have been very, very good they are getting an extra special early Christmas present.

The ability to delight children by telling them stories about Santa Claus, as well as making them see and talk to the jolly old fellow, puts a lot of magic and excitement into Christmas. Once the tradition is started, or from the first time that children have been told the story, it becomes something that they look forward to every year during the Christmas season.

There’s also the sound of music from choirs or school groups who often give open performances singing Christmas carols and songs in malls and downtown areas of towns. Families and others who are out and about will pause to listen or to sing along with these groups.

Shopping is undoubtedly an enjoyable activity for most people during Christmas, but merrier and more memorable times are enjoyed when time is spent with family, friends and colleagues during the season. Before Christmas Day arrives, there usually are parties at home and at work, an evening out with friends and other occasions to get together and share the spirit of Christmas. The presence of special Christmas music and people dressed in holiday attire provide a different atmosphere and contribute to the magical feeling of the season.

Another thing that is different at Christmas is the scent from a fresh Christmas tree, of gingerbread and other cookies baking and other food preparations that are specially done at Christmas time. Most people who select a real Christmas tree instead of an artificial one for their homes do so because of the wonderful scent it provides. For many people, that scent from a Christmas tree is what puts Christmas into everything else.

Another popular scent at Christmas comes from the popular Christmas song ‘Chestnuts Roasting Over an Open Fire.’ The actual roasting of chestnuts by families during the Christmas season may be a rare occurrence these days but it is occasionally done in some downtown areas and in bakeries and confectioneries that make fresh products everyday.

All these events, activities, happenings, sights, sounds and scents of Christmas and the holidays create special and unforgettable memories. And who can deny that a pleasant memory is always something that is truly magical.

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Christmas music in the form of carols, songs stringed or instrumental renditions, is constantly heard during the Christmas season. Music forms the background against which everything else takes place to make the Christmas season different from all others. Christmas music plays such a significant role that during the entire season, other popular music temporarily disappears from radio. That may be the reason for all the different types of Christmas music – sacred, secular, popular and traditional – that have emerged throughout the years.

Popular and secular renditions of Christmas music has been developed by musical artists and performers who ‘make over’ classic styles of Christmas music with their own personal touch. One reason for popular make overs of Christmas music may be because regular popular music is not heard during the holiday season so pop musicians and artists do Christmas music to keep their voices always in earshot of their fans and the general audience. It could also be that they want to capitalize on the popularity of Christmas music.

Whatever the reason, it has become a trend for popular musical artists to release new Christmas or holiday music albums during the season. Since variety is the spice of life, it means there are more variations of secular, sacred, classical or traditional and popular renditions of Christmas music that can be heard.

Music at Christmas time is important to create the right mood. The prevalence of Christmas music is what helps to create the special holiday type of feeling or spirit that is present everywhere and among everyone. Everyone has particular Christmas songs and carols that are favorites, maybe for the melody, the lyrics or because they are reminders of special memories.

The most popular Christmas song is said to be ‘White Christmas,’ which is popular even in warm and tropical climates where people sing of ‘dreaming of a White Christmas,’ which in reality they would not want. Other popular Christmas songs and carols are: Away in a Manger, which tells the Nativity story in song; O Holy Night, Silent Night, Joy to the World, Hark the Herald Angels and Angels we have Heard on High.

All of those songs are sacred and are all about the story of Jesus’ birth. Of note also is Handel’s  majestic ‘Hallelujah Chorus,’  which is a favorite that choirs like to sing because of the splendor embodied in the music.

Nat King Cole’s ‘Chestnut Roasting On an Open Fire’ is a classical favorite. It defies categorization as it isn’t sacred but is also not considered secular like a song such as ‘Sleigh Ride.’ Among secular Christmas songs, there are also funny ones such as ‘I Saw Mummy Kissing Santa Claus Underneath the Mistletoe Last Night’ and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. The availability of a wide Christmas music selection makes it possible to choose ones for different occasions, such as for general use at home, for a fun or informal party or for a formal dinner. As an example, selections can be made to create the right mood at the start of a party, followed by more lively music when the party is in full swing, and then selections to slow down the pace when the party is nearing its end.

It’s also important to note that professional groups such as choirs, symphonies and orchestras will also record performances of Christmas music on albums. For the very serious and critical music aficionados, these albums will provide wonderful listening pleasure and also make good Christmas presents. Listening to music from those groups is also a way of enjoying their performances if doesn’t get the opportunity to attend a live concert by the professional group.

Whatever selections of Christmas music are made however, it’s likely that it will create a festive mood and spirit among all who hear or are listening to the music.

Movies related to Christmas help to create a fun atmosphere and can also teach moral lessons related to Christmas. While everyone will have different Christmas movies that are most enjoyable, there are some that remain favorites.

‘A Christmas Story’ is told from the point of view of a little boy in the days before Christmas and on Christmas Day. It shows him doing routine things each day but against the backdrop of the Christmas season with the decorated store windows, Santa Claus, the snow and frostiness, and of course his wish for a Christmas toy. But his parents disapprove of the toy that he desired. The movie is good in showing the innocence of the Christmas season.

‘A Christmas Carol,’ written by noted author Charles Dickens, tells the story of old Scrooge whose only purpose in life is to make money. Scrooge puts making money above his family, friends and everyone who cares about him. His response to Christmas is a grumpy, ‘Bah Humbug.’ He gets a different experience however, when ghosts appear to him and try to point out the error of his ways. The movie’s lesson is about the importance of appreciating people in your life

‘It’s A Wonderful Life’ is a story about hope and the worthiness of everyone. It tells the story of a man experiencing despair and self-destruction because he thinks he is of no worth to those around him, and they would be better off if he didn’t exist. An angel grants him his desire and he gets to see what he contributes and what life would be like without him.

Every Christmas, ‘A Miracle on 34th Street’ can be seen on television. It asks and answers the question ‘Is there really a Santa Claus?’ The movie is about a man who claims to be Kris Kringle, or Santa Claus, but is not believed and so he has to prove his identity claim.

‘National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation’ is about the Griswold family with Mr. Griswold, played by Chevy Chase, who gets into silly accidents that provide a lot of humor. The movie shows the lives of the family as they celebrate Christmas and the difficulties that arise when their entire family comes to visit for Christmas.

‘Home Alone’ is about a large and chaotic family with lots of kids who are going on Christmas vacation. Amid the chaos of leaving on the morning of the trip, one child is left behind and must stay and fend for himself in a very large house during the Christmas season. At first he was happy to be alone but then two thieves break in and he has to fight them off. The movie shows the importance of family and loved ones.

A sequel, ‘Home Alone 2: Lost in New York’ tells of the boy who was left alone going to an aunt and uncle’s home and again encountering the two thieves who are seeking revenge.

Another sequel, ‘Home Aone 3′ tells of a different boy (to 1 & 2) who also has to fight off thieves to protect his family’s Christmas.

Yet Another sequel, ‘Home Alone 4′ tells of the the boy who left his family to spend Christmas with his Father and although he got everything he wanted, and foiled a burglery as well, he and his father found out that money and possessions were nothing in comparison to having a family.

‘How The Grinch Stole Christmas’ was first made as an animation for television but other versions have since been done as motion pictures. The Grinch is a grouchy, green man who lives in the mountains above the small town of Whoville where residents, called The Whos, celebrate Christmas enthusiastically every year. The Grinch who doesn’t like Christmas wants to spoil it for Whoville and so he tries to steal all the toys, food and gifts that The Whos have accumulated for Christmas. The movie provides a lesson on the true meaning of Christmas.

‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’ is an animated television movie about the popular Peanuts comic strip. The movie is about the comic strip’s main character, Charlie Brown, and tells of the experience with his friends for Christmas. It also has Biblical references that relates to the true meaning of Christmas.

‘Frosty The Snowman’ is an animated story about a snowman, named Frosty, that comes to life and who must avoid a greedy musician who is trying to get the magic that brought Frosty to life. The movie is very funny and has lots of wonderful songs.

‘Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer’ is also an animation about the reindeer with a shiny nose that kisses a pretty girl and also helps out his friends.

“Four Christmasses’ is about a family that wants to spend Christmas with each of the four sets of Grandparents.

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