Different Holidays to Celebrate in December

Alejandro Sanchez, Features Reporter

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, and New Years are the most popular holidays to celebrate in December. This being because they are associated with some of the most widely practiced religions in the world or like New Years which is a worldwide event.

However, these aren’t the only holidays you can celebrate this month. This month is full of various holidays that anybody can enjoy.

December 7: National Cotton Candy Day

Ever since its invention in the 1400s, cotton candy has been a delicious treat that people around the world enjoy. On this day, the way to celebrate is by going out to eat cotton candy or maybe, if you happen to have a cotton candy machine, you could even make your own cotton candy along with your friends or family.  

December 10: Human Rights Day

This day created by the United Nations raises importance of addressing problems regarding human rights all around the world. On December 10th of 1948, the United Nations General Assembly embraced a Universal Declaration of Human Rights. To celebrate this holiday, spend some time to support human rights issues that you find important.

December 12: Poinsettia Day

Everybody sees these gorgeous red flowers around Christmas time. I bet you didn’t know that this flower has its own holiday. This day was made to honor Joel Roberts Poinsettia who passed away on December 12, 1851. He brought this beautiful plant to the United States from Mexico. Mr. Poinsettia would grow these flowers in his plantation in Greenville, S.C. and give them as gifts to his friends.

 

First weekend after Christmas: Boxing Day

Boxing Day is an actual holiday in England, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and other former British countries. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate it too. Boxing Day is celebrated by getting a box and filling it with food and clothes for the needy. You could donate at your local donation or rescue center.

Dec 26 – Jan 1: Kwanzaa

Although most people have heard of Kwanzaa, not many know what the holiday is about. Kwanzaa is celebrated in the U.S. and regions of West Africa for an entire week. This African-American holiday celebrates what the founder of Kwanzaa called the seven principles of African Heritage. Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (Self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity), Imani (faith).

December 29: Pepper Pot Day

This day was made to celebrate the creation of a deliciously spicy soup which was invented in 1777. This soup was created for the Continental Army during the winter of 1777 and 1778. Celebrate by making pepper pot soup and enjoying this meal with your family. Here is a recipe you could try: http://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/250011/quick-pepperpot-soup/