Christmas Day

**Christmas Day in the United Kingdom** is a cherished national holiday celebrated on **December 25th** each year. It is a time for family gatherings, festive traditions, and religious observance, marking the birth of Jesus Christ for Christians. The day is filled with warmth, joy, and a sense of togetherness. In the UK, Christmas Day is a public holiday, with most businesses and schools closed. Families often start the day by exchanging **gifts** under the **Christmas tree**, followed by a traditional **Christmas dinner**. The meal typically includes **roast turkey**, **stuffing**, **roast potatoes**, **vegetables**, and **gravy**, with **Christmas pudding** or **mince pies** for dessert. Many also enjoy **crackers** at the table, which contain small toys, jokes, and paper crowns. The day is also marked by **religious services**, with many attending **midnight Mass** or Christmas morning church services. The **Queen's Christmas Message**, now delivered by **King Charles III**, is a long-standing tradition, broadcast on television and radio, offering reflections on the year. Festive decorations, including **Christmas trees**, **lights**, and **wreaths**, adorn homes and streets, creating a magical atmosphere. Popular traditions include watching **Christmas films**, playing games, and listening to **carols**. Boxing Day, celebrated on December 26th, follows Christmas Day, extending the holiday spirit. Christmas Day in the UK is a time of joy, generosity, and celebration, bringing people together to share in the magic of the season.