The abbreviation Xmas isn’t irreligious. The letter X is a Greek abbreviation for Christ.

The origins of there being Three Wise Men aren’t clear. There’s certainly no mention of it in the bible – in the Gospel of Matthew it refers to just “wise men”.

US scientists calculated that Santa would have to visit 822 homes a second to deliver all the world’s presents on Christmas Eve, travelling at 650 miles a second.

The word “Carol” actually means dance or song of praise and joy, and they used to be sung during all four seasons, but the tradition of only singing them at Christmas is the only one to survive.

Christmas Trivia

Holly and Ivy have been used to decorate homes since the 9th century because they symbolise everlasting life. The holly represents Christ’s crown of thorns and the berries his blood.

Christmas Beverage

• 1. Step 1Spread sugar on a small, shallow plate. Pour simple syrup onto another small, shallow plate. Dip rims of 2 tall glasses in simple syrup, then roll rims in sugar, holding glass at a 45° angle.
  2. Step 2In a cocktail shaker, combine wine, cherry syrup, lemon juice, and bitters. Fill shaker with ice, cover, and vigorously shake until outside of shaker is very frosty, about 20 seconds.
  3. Step 3Fill prepared glasses with ice. Strain cocktail into glasses. Top with prosecco.
  4. Step 4Dip skin of each plum slice into simple syrup, then gently roll in sugar. Garnish drinks with sugared plum slices.