The Origins of Merry Christmas and Happy Christmas
The holiday season is about spending time with family and friends, exchanging gifts, and savoring delicious food and drinks. One of the most beloved Christmas traditions is exchanging Merry Christmas or Happy Christmas greetings. While the two phrases may seem interchangeable, they have distinct origins and meanings.
Merry Christmas originated in Britain in the 16th century and was used to wish people joy and happiness during the Christmas season. The word ‘merry’ originally meant to be short-lived or fleeting but evolved to mean joyful or festive. On the other hand, Happy Christmas was the standard greeting in England until the mid-19th century when Merry Christmas took over. It is believed that the switch occurred due to the influence of Charles Dickens’ famous novella “A Christmas Carol,” where the famous phrase “Merry Christmas” was used.
Today, both Merry Christmas and Happy Christmas are used in various English-speaking countries but are more prevalent in different regions. Brits use Happy Christmas more often, while Americans favor Merry Christmas.
Celebrating with Brunch and Sunday Funday
How can you celebrate the festive season and incorporate these holiday greetings into your plans? Brunching with Merry or Happy Christmas is one excellent way to start your Sunday Funday and celebrate the holiday. Brunch is a famous American tradition that originated in the late 19th century and combines breakfast and lunch into one delicious meal typically served between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. You can prepare a festive brunch and include classic holiday dishes such as cranberry sauce, roasted turkey, and cinnamon rolls.
To make the brunch truly cheerful, you can serve mimosas – a refreshing cocktail with champagne, orange juice, and Triple Sec liqueur. Mimosas have a long history and were first created in the early 20th century in Paris, where they were a popular drink among the elite. Today, they are a staple brunch drink across America and a perfect way to celebrate the holiday season with family and friends.
Another way to combine the Merry or Happy Christmas spirit with Sunday Funday activities is by participating in holiday-themed events. Many cities and towns offer various holiday festivities, such as Christmas markets, ice-skating rinks, and caroling sessions. These events are perfect for spending time with your loved ones and making happy memories together.
In conclusion, the phrases Merry Christmas and Happy Christmas carry a rich history and are used worldwide to spread joy and happiness during the festive season. Celebrating with brunch and Sunday Funday activities is an excellent way to incorporate these phrases into your plans. So, gather your loved ones, prepare a delicious brunch, and toast to the holidays with mimosas. Have a Merry or Happy Christmas!
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