Course Description

Instructor: Michael McDavid

Ever since the people of Britain became Christians, Christmas has been one of the most important, anticipated times of the year. In this session we will look at how the British royals have celebrated the Christmas holidays, beginning with the Middle Ages down to contemporary times. Until Henry VIII separated the English Church from the Catholic one, Christmas was a 12-day holiday from December 25 through January 6. In more recent times the holiday has evolved into a much shorter but equally festive event. Christmas as it is observed today largely evolved in the 19th century during Queen Victoria’s long reign. Present day royal traditions are a continuation of the Victorian ones with others added in the 20th century. If you love the Christmas holidays, for religious or secular reasons, come join us to see how the British royals celebrated, both in the past and today.