38. Christmas here, now and everywhere
16 December 2025

38. Christmas here, now and everywhere

Learning How To Be Old

About

Christmas is here now — and almost everywhere around the world. But how have your own celebrations changed over the years? How has your role changed and has your attitude towards Christmas changed? Are you more religious or spiritual now than you were 20 years ago? Why has this particular religious festival gone viral? Why do various non-Christian nations celebrate Christmas with a public holiday? How does Christmas vary in different countries?





Above all, what does Christmas here and now mean to you? I asked random people this question on Cuba Street, Wellington, and they were mostly in agreement — but with some surprises. And of course I have my own opinions.








    Observance of Christmas by country (Wikipedia)



    An old-person Christmas tree (Writeintolife.com)



    Home alone on Christmas Day, 2015 (Writeintolife.com)