Appalachian Christmas Traditions

Some still follow many traditions passed down through the years.

Appalachian christmas traditions. Different parts of kentucky observe different holiday traditions but the appalachian regions hold some of the most timeless. Historically christmas was first celebrated by christian churches on january 7 until the 16th century. The previous tradition of calling for a christmas gift an opportunity for the poor to call upon more prosperous homes for help without the stigma of begging was abandoned. Although money was always in short supply the ever practical appalachian people always found ways to make christmas meaningful a characteristic of appalachian people that continues today.

Harvest was over. From archaic druid rituals to the simple act of caroling elements of christmas in appalachia have changed pretty drastically over the years. Here in the mountains we had our own way of celebrating christmas but in recent years we ve begun to lose some of our traditions. Some appalachian christmas stories attempt to explain how certain traditions and images such as gift giving mistletoe poinsettia flowers and christmas trees came to be associated with christmas.

A few videos of some of the most popular songs are added below. For example did you know that many people living in appalachian and amish communities celebrate christmas twice. In some cases these traditions and images became significant because they were featured in the celebration of the birth of christ. Special music has been played during the winter holidays in the mountain region in several states and this music includes dulcimer fiddle and other instruments that produce tunes of celtic original.

Christmas trees rarely present in appalachia because of their pagan influence became a common sight. Christmas in central appalachia. The simple christmas traditions of the appalachians convey timeless sentiments of the season. Appalachian christmas traditions history and legends.

Some even still celebrate christmas on january 7 instead of december 25. Many of our older and quirkier traditions have faded away. These timeless traditions speak to a simpler holiday celebration focused on family and friends. Christmas celebrations look a lot different today than they did in the days of early appalachian settlers but many of our traditions are based on those early christmases.

Some traditions varied throughout the region but many traditions were common for all.