By Austin Price, Staff Writer

Alright, as we come to an end of these wild Christmas traditions, we will wrap things up with some scary stories and creepy Christmas legends. Why, you may ask. Because the true meaning of Christmas is not to show your love for one another through acts of generosity and kindness. No, the true meaning of Christmas is to focus on superstitious rituals and cult-like ideals. Here we go. 

By Austin Price, Staff Writer

Alright you single ladies, this next tradition is for you. This is by far the most unusual and outlandish Christmas tradition I have ever come across, but it certainly is interesting. While this tradition is not as well known in America, it is a holiday celebration staple for the Czech Republic. 

By Austin Price, Staff Writer

Our next Christmas tradition is one of my personal favorites: the wearing of Ugly Christmas sweaters. Ugly Christmas sweaters didn’t actually start out so ugly. The original ugly Christmas sweaters were never intended to be ugly; they were actually pretty artistic and joyful. They were first known as “Jingle Bell Sweaters” and featured discrete Christmas themed decorations. However, as the years went by, these sweaters became more commercialized and took on a different meaning. 

By Austin Price, Staff Writer

One of my favorite holiday hobbies is decorating gingerbread houses and other baked structures of architecture. While they are fun to create and yummy to snack on, gingerbread houses started as a tradition not meant to be eaten, but instead meant to be used exclusively for decoration. Gingerbread houses originated in Germany during the 16th century. However, in order to build a gingerbread house, we need to start with gingerbread itself. 

By Austin Price, Staff Writer

Up next our focus is on a sweet treat, sugar plums. I am sure we have all heard of the magical Sugar Plum Fairy, featured in the iconic ballet, “The Nutcracker” or we have read Clement Clarke Moore's iconic 1823 poem "Twas the Night Before Christmas," which includes the line, "The children were nestled all snug in their beds / While visions of sugar plums dance in their heads." However, I am sure it has never occurred to you what a sugar plum is. Surprisingly, sugar plums often do not include actual plums. 

By Austin Price, Staff Writer

I think it’s safe to say that all of us have experienced the awkward moment when you open your door in December to be met with over-enthusiastic, community college glee club members ready to serenade you with Christmas carols in freezing temperatures. Quite frankly, I think this tradition is outdated and uncomfortable but let us look at the why’s behind these unsolicited, amateur performances happening on your front lawn.