Christmas traditions are the special customs and practices associated with the festivities. These traditions vary from country to country, but they often include such things as decorating a Christmas tree, attending church services, eating special foods, and giving gifts to loved ones.

People will also decorate the exterior of their homes and gardens with lights, garlands, and other Christmas decorations.

Lots of people still send Christmas cards to family and friends, while others will attend special events, such as concerts, plays and pageants. Some areas have strong traditions which may include a torch lit procession.

The hanging of stockings by the fireplace is another popular Christmas tradition in many homes. Children believe Santa Claus will fill their stockings with toys and sweets on Christmas Eve.

Many people also enjoy listening to Christmas music, including hymns and popular festive tunes like Silent Night, Jingle Bells and Deck the Halls.

If you would like to know more about festive traditions – not just here in the UK but around the world – then the Christmas.co.uk team will write about them here.