Christmas

Christmas is one of the most important Christian holidaysChristmas has always been considered a magical time. According to popular belief, various miracles were performed at midnight. In the period of complete extinction of nature, in the gloomy cold season, objects that are symbols of a new revival of nature acquire special importance. Therefore, an important role in Christmas ceremonies is played by branches of eternal greenery or blooming in winter. Such plants were ascribed a special vital force, and in order to receive this all-conquering vital force from them, they tried to bring them into the house during the feast or touch people and animals with them.

By Christmas there are many beliefs about evil spirits. In the period of winter cold and darkness, various mythical creatures of folk fantasy – elves, dwarves, witches – acquired especially destructive force. At this time, a "wild hunt" sweeps through the air - spirits led by Wodan. During the Middle Ages, many historical figures, Attila, Diderich of Bern, Charlemagne and later even Napoleon, were often mentioned as the leader of wild hunting. Often the pagan wild hunt receives a Christian understanding: it is said that the souls of sinners under the leadership of Herod and Cain sweep through the clouds.

In order to take away the evil and vengeance of hellish creatures taking part in wild hunting, Belgium performed various protective actions: bypassed with burning torches or candles around the house and stall, fumigated the dwelling with the smoke of burning juniper, frightened away unclean force by the ringing of bells. Until recently, there was a custom to trumpet with the same purpose in the Christmas horn. It was made of a curved and hollowed piece of alderwood with a length of 1-1.5 meters, and is now made of metal. The horn is blown over the well, and the sound becomes stronger. In this horn trumpeted at night throughout the Christmas Eve - from Christmas Eve to baptism. On such a dark winter night, the monotonous piercing sounds of these home-made instruments were often heard, spreading far in silence through the frosty air.

On the second day of Christmas, the celebration continues. In cities, many people celebrate this day by attending theaters, evenings, concerts or meeting friends in a cafe or restaurant.