5 Enchanting old English traditions

I dare you all to step back in time and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of old England and these 5 Christmas traditions dating back to the old times. Christmas, as we know it, is an old-age custom which has been passed down through many generations, adding a touch of magic to any household. If you are someone who likes to remember your ancestors and loved ones, this festive season will take you through a nostalgic journey through time.

I dare you to picture quaint, stone villages adorned with flickering candlelight, hospitable neighbourhoods with an aroma of mulled wine wafting through the air, and the jolly carollers singing in the pale frosty night.

1: The Yule Log

The yule log played a central role in bringing warmth and light to the celebrations of old England. It was a family activity prior to the festivities to select the best and the largest log possible (mostly from an oak tree) and bring it to their homes. Not sure about you, but I can just imagine the arguments and competitions between neighbours! Sounds like a good plot for a Christmas comedy.

But moving on.

The log would then be lit on Christmas Eve, symbolising the rebirth of the sun and the hope of a prosperous year awaiting ahead. As the log burned in the crackling ambience, the embers were believed to bring good luck to the household and protect from evil spirits.

2: The hanging of a mistletoe

A symbol of love and friendship even in the modern era, a couple who find themselves stood under a mistletoe, are obliged to share a kiss. I don’t know about you but I am surprised the cancel culture did not yet cancel this tradition!

In the old ages, this tradition added a playful romance to the already cheerful festivities and even the normally prudish young couples found themselves eagerly seeking the opportunity to steal a modest kiss under the spiky mistletoe adorned by delicate, red berries.

Tell me, what can add more wonder and anticipation than a green mistletoe hanging from doorways and ceilings of one’s home?

3: The making of Christmas pudding

A cherished tradition was the making of this rich and indulgent desert which was prepared weeks in advance. Families would gather around in the kitchen mixing together many ingredients such as suet, flour, breadcrumbs, sugar and a variety of dried fruits. Some modest families would save ingredients for this dessert throughout the whole year to make sure this special addition was not missed on their Christmas table. Each family member would take turns stirring the mixture (no male exclusion just in case you were stupidly - I mean, deeply wondering) and making the wish for the upcoming year.

On the Christmas day, the pudding would be a place at the centre of the table and doused in brandy and set alight. It was believed that having one slice of this desert would bring good luck and prosperity.

4: Carolling

Yet another beloved tradition, group of people, often dressed in traditional attire, would walk from house to house spreading joy with their melodious, angelic voices. During the chilly winter days, turning the lips blue and cheeks red, their Christmas carols (both religious and secular) would fill the air with harmony. As you can imagine, the sound of their voices would echo the streets, daring people to get out of the house and away from their usual responsibilities, at least for a small moment to join the merriment. Unless you were the Ebenezer Scrooge himself, you would not miss this joy of the season for the world.

5: The game of shoe the mare

Last but not least, let’s join the unruly steeds, or people who oftentimes love to lose their sense of propriety.

And what’s a better time to do so when not after the Christmas dinner, which often leaves one bloated?

So, let us go back in time to the Elizabethan neighbourhoods where after Christmas dinner, families would have played this athletic game of shoe the mare. Rules were quite simple (and quite crazy if you would ask me). A barefoot family member would run around and other participants would chase to catch them. Who is with me to try this out?

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My lovely readers,

I did the research and found some known and some less known old English Christmas traditions. What are yours?

Please have an enchanting and crazy Christmas full of joy and a beautiful New Year with your loved ones. Or even by yourself, if you wish.

Take care all and stay safe.

With love,

Niki Pleva