Christmas is almost here!! But, it's not the only holiday.

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In the United States (and most other European-related countries), Christmas is a time of gift-giving and celebration. For Christians, it is a time to remember the birth of Christ. We all know it is not the actual day of his birth, but it is believed that being thankful for His arrival is important. Non-Christians have joined in for the celebratory portion of the day to share with others, join with family, have large family meals and simply enjoy the day frequently visiting family and friends. This time of year is also the season for Hanukkah, a celebration of the miracle of the oil lamps that stayed lit for eight days without oil. At least in my area of the country, it is celebrated in a similar manner to Christmas but covering a longer period as one candle of the menorah is lit each day of Hanukkah. Some have welcomed the secular Christmas celebration into their homes as well, so they have a lengthy time of celebration, food, family and holiday decor. (I know my explanation may be overly simplistic, but remember, I am an outsider to this particular event.) My first knowledge of Ramadan was during the Christmas season. It is a period of fasting and prayer followed by a celebratory meal when the period is over. Islam is not the only religion that uses fasting as a means to draw closer to God, but they do seem to be one of the few that sets aside a specific time for it. Ramadan is not always during this time of year, but I mention it because that was when I first became aware of it. Islam's holiday with gift giving, though, is Eid. I don't know enough about it to know more than that. There is the recently created holiday of Kwanzaa also at this time of year. A candelabra not unlike a menorah is lit daily as seven principles of life are emphasized. Again, I am not fully aware of whether this holiday celebration is shared with Christmas or they cannot be celebrated jointly. These seven principles are worthy principles for any and all and deserving of honor. But, not all people in the world follow these holidays, so if you are not a follower of any of these, do you have a celebration that you follow during this time of year (or a similar type of celebration but at another time of year?) I'd be interested in learning about your annual holidays and celebrations.