In Greek legend, malicious creatures called Kallikantzaroi sometimes play troublesome pranks at Christmas time. In order to get rid of them, salt or an old shoe is burnt. The pungent burning stench drives off, or at least helps discourage, the Kallikantza
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Robins on cards were a joke 150 years ago when postmen wore red tunics and were named after them.
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Carols began as an old English custom called wassailing, toasting neighbours to a long life.
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The Christmas tree displayed in Trafalgar square in London is an annual gift to the UK from Norway since 1947. The Norwegian spruce given is a token of appreciation of British friendship during World War II from the Norwegian people.
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Black Friday in the UK is the Friday before Christmas. Instead of shopping, many people get very drunk!
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Electric lights for trees were first used in 1895.
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Nearly 60 million Christmas trees are grown each year in Europe.
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