December is a time for celebration and thoughtful reflection for all of us in these United States. We wanted to help spread a little holiday cheer with an article that helps people from all faiths learn a little more about the three major holidays that take place each December. Since the holiday season is also an excellent time to make and eat various delicious foods, we have included the different traditional food dishes that are emblematic of each religious holiday. Maybe you could try one or all of the dishes this year? Either way, good food and family is definitely something to celebrate!
Christmas. December 25th
Christmas has its origins in both Christian (hence the name) and pagan traditions that were popular at the time. It is a celebration of the birth of the religion’s lord and savior, Jesus Christ blended with pagan practices like the yule log, bringing a tree indoors and decorating it, and taking place during a time that was typically celebrated by the pagans: the winter solstice which takes place around the 21st of December each year.
Traditional foods include
- Large roasts like beef, turkey, ham, or goose
- Fall and winter specific side dishes and produce like yams, potatoes, nuts, cranberries, apples, and figs
- Fan favorite dish: cookies, pies, fruitcakes, yule logs
Hanukkah: The Festival of Lights. Dates Vary By Year.
Hanukkah is known as The Festival Of Lights and takes place at the end of each year, typically starting in late November or even mid to late December. It is observed over a period of eight nights and is marked by the lighting of celebratory candles in a specialized candle holder called a menorah. It is typically celebrated by people of the Jewish faith to commemorate the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of the oil lasting eight days.
Traditional foods include
- Latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts), symbolizing the miracle of oil.
- Large baked briskets and other hearty dishes that can feed large gatherings.
Kwanzaa: Honoring African Heritage and Unity. December 26th Through January 1st.
Kwanzaa was established in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga to celebrate African-American culture and values. It is a celebration of family and loved ones in the affirmation of the seven guiding principles known as Nguzo Saba. They are the core tenants of the week-long celebration.
Traditional foods include
- Soul food staples like collard greens, black-eyed peas, candied yams, buttermilk biscuits, spoonbread and fried chicken.
- More traditional African foods are also served as a reminder of their ancestral heritage, which include jollof rice, plantains, Accras: Caribbean fritters, Feijoada (a stew of black beans, pork, and vegetables over rice), and more!
Conclusion
We hope that this article about the holiday season and its delicious foods was useful to you. If you want to make a purchase, schedule one of our window covering experts for a FREE estimate and more information by calling the office at 208-888-1056. If you have any questions about purchasing some awesome exterior solar shades or commercial blind or window covering work, or any other window covering related issue, we would love to hear from you. Contact us today to get started.