02 Dec 2021 8:00am - 6:00pm

What's Happening at Resource Hub in December?Enrichment

Season of Love

 

Over 2 billion people in more than 160 countries around the world celebrate Christmas Day on 25th December every year. Traditionally, Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. However, many people of different faiths also celebrate the day as a cultural event and has considered Christmas as one of the most important holidays of the year. Hence, Christmas day has become a public holiday in many countries. Christmas traditions vary around the world and have evolved over time. Some of them are borrowed from other traditions and cultures, too. Over time, beliefs and customs are integrated as peoples migrate and attitudes changed.

 

One of the most well-known Christmas customs around the world is gift-giving. This custom is based on the Christian tradition associated with Saint Nicholas, and the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh which were given to baby Jesus by the Magi shortly after his birth. Unfortunately, the gift-giving aspect of Christmas has led to its commercialisation. Gift-giving and many other aspects of Christmas festival involves heightened economic activity. On average, Singaporeans spend $460 on Christmas gifts and goodies each year. The holiday has become a significant event and a key sales period for retailers and businesses. Over the past few centuries, Christmas has had a steadily growing economic effect in many regions of the world including Singapore.

 

Another aspect of Christmas is the decorations that are put up in public spaces as early as November. A common essential of Christmas decorations is the Christmas tree which was first used by German Lutherans in the 16th century. Traditional colours of Christmas such as pine green (evergreen), snow white, and heart red are incorporated into these decorations. Typical images on Christmas decorations include Baby JesusSanta Claus, and the star of Bethlehem.

 

Despite the pandemic, Christmas is still one of the most popular holidays of the year. Our famous shopping belt, Orchard Road has been decorated and is getting busy with many people starting to get gifts for their loved ones. Have you done your shopping yet? We will be organsing an upcoming Christmas event for the students. Stay tuned to the eDM that will be sent out soon!

 

Taking this opportunity to wish everyone a Merry Christmas & have a good year ahead!