Holiday Habits
Why does Santa wear Red?
Coca-cola ads in the 1930s made Santa character wear red.
Why do people say "bless you" after you sneeze?
Before sneezing meant your soul left your body, saying bless you was meant to protect that person.
Why do we blow candles for birthday wishes?
The smoke from the candles is believed to go up to the gods where they can make your wish come true.
Why does the bride throw a flower bouquet into the crowd?
If you catch the bouquet you will be the next to get married.
Why do we dress up for Halloween?
From ancient Celtic festival to hide from or confuse evil spirits.
Why do people say "cheese" in photos?
Photographers started asking people to do so because it made them smile naturally.
Why do graduates toss their graduation caps?
In 1912, the U.S naval academy did it because they were getting new ones.
Why do the bride and groom cut the wedding cake together?
Symbolizes unity and couples shared future
Why do we launch fireworks to celebrate New Years?
From ancient Chinese tradition to scare away evil spirits.
Why do people shake hands up on meeting?
It shows respect and that you aren't carrying a weapon
Why do we make a wish for shooting stars?
Ancient Greeks thought falling stars meant the Gods were looking down so they asked for blessings.
On the wedding day, why can't the bride or groom see each other before?
It's bad luck for the couple to see each other before the ceremony in case one of them changed their mind.
Why do we hang stockings on the fireplace for Christmas?
St. Nicholas dropped gold coins down a chimney down a poor persons chimney and they landed in her stockings that we drying by the fire.
Why do we clink glasses for a toast/cheers?
It mixes drinks slightly to show it isn't poisoned.
Why do we toss coins into fountains?
Water was believed to be sacred, protected/inhabited by gods.
Why does the bride wear white during a wedding?
Queen Victoria wore white for her wedding in 1840 and people copied. Also seen as a symbol of purity.
Why do we put a Christmas tree in the house?
They survive all year so it gives hope of life during cold times.
Why do we knock on wood to avoid jinxing yourself?
Good spirits were believed to live in trees/wood.
Why do we do pranks on April fools?
People who celebrated the old New Year (April 1st) were called April Fools.
Why do people wear their wedding ring on the "ring finger"?
Ancient Romans beloved that "the vein of love" ran from that finger to the heart.