American Christmas is much more different now than it used to be because of the mixture of nationalities that had already settled in the continent. But this makes the holiday season even more beautiful; the variety of practices makes for a more interesting celebration each year.

When it comes to beautifying homes and backyards, Americans are very creative. You will see a number of Christmas symbols in an average American’s household décor, both inside and out. There are the stockings filled with candies by parents during Christmas Eve to surprise their children. There are the candles lit by windows, which is seldom done now but whose concept of lighting is still maintained through Christmas lights twirled around whatever they can be twirled around. There are the wreaths, hollies, and evergreens; the crèche or manger scene in different sizes and depictions; and, the bells that ring at Christmastime as if rejoicing about the joyous day. There is white-bearded old Santa Claus in his red suit and pipe, riding in the night in his reindeer-driven sleigh to shower good children with gifts. And of course there is the Christmas tree whose decoration alone is an enjoyable and meaningful affair for most.

Apart from what can be seen of American Christmas, there are the practices. Kids caroling in the night and invited in for supper by their audiences, Secret Santa gift-giving, and the almost sinful feasting on turkey, salads, cake, and pudding. No matter how different American Christmas is from other cultures, however, it all is the same inside when it is the joy, peace, and love that glow from each and everyone’s hearts that is looked upon as the reason for the season’s celebration.