The joy of a midwinter feast dates back over 4,000 years in Britain. Archaeological discoveries at Durrington Walls, near Stonehenge, revealed that pigs were slaughtered around the Winter Solstice, indicating well-fed celebrations.
The Romans embraced the solstice with Saturnalia, a festive holiday where social roles reversed—slaves enjoyed luxuries, dice games abounded, and party attire replaced plain togas. Small gifts, songs, and laughter filled the air.
Christmas Feasting Through History
In the 4th Century, the Christian Church adopted the 12 Days of Christmas (25th December–5th January), marking the end of a strict Advent fast. Medieval feasts reached grandiose scales—King John’s 1213 banquet famously included 200 heads of pork, 1,000 chickens, 10,000 salted eels, and 24 hogsheads of wine!
Modern traditions like white fish in champagne sauce remain family favourites, but historically, Tudor pies crammed in pork, pheasant, venison, and spices, making them a feast-worthy centrepiece.
Christmas Facts You Didn’t Know
- In Sweden, Twelfth Night is celebrated as Thirteenth Day on January 6.
- "The Twelve Days of Christmas" song first appeared in English in 1780.
- The famous Baddeley Cake ceremony at Drury Lane Theatre began in 1794 and continues today, themed to the current show.
Whether you’re celebrating with champagne sauce or experimenting with Tudor pies, Christmas remains a time of joyful feasting and shared traditions.
Merry Christmas, Happy Solstice, and a Joyful New Year to all!
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