Christmas traditions, celebrations, and curious customs of days gone by
Think you know what an old-fashioned Christmas looked like? Think again!
The Christmas celebrations Jane Austen knew were rather different from the holiday we celebrate today. Christmas trees were uncommon, gifts weren’t the center of attention, and children certainly didn’t rule the festivities. Instead, the season was filled with visiting, feasting, dancing, games, and gatherings that could stretch all the way to Twelfth Night.
And that was just the beginning. From kissing boughs and wassailing to Christmas puddings and peculiar party games, the traditions of Christmas past have stories worth telling. Some have survived almost unchanged, others have evolved beyond recognition, and a few might leave us wondering what on earth our ancestors were thinking.
Come explore the foods, festivities, and fascinating history behind the holidays we think we know.
Start your journey into Christmas past here
Special Days of the Holiday Season
Learn more here
Traditions ~Discover the customs, decorations, and celebrations of Christmas past.
Food ~Explore the feasts, sweets, and curious dishes served during Christmastide.
Frivolities ~From dancing to party games, discover how our ancestors made merry.
See the traditions featured in these Christmas stories
Austen Inspired Christmas Stories
Dragon Stories
Here We Come A Wassailing (coming 2026)
Want to spend a little longer in Christmas past?
Discover the real traditions of the Regency holiday season in A Jane Austen Christmas, or join Elizabeth and Darcy for a festive visit to Pemberley in The Darcys’ First Christmas. After all, reading about a Regency Christmas is delightful. Spending one with the Darcys might be even better.
Curious about everyday life beyond the Christmas season? Explore Regency Life to discover more of the customs, comforts, and complications of Jane Austen’s England.