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A modern British Christmas: exploring modern traditions and British customs at Christmas
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First, we have the run-up to Christmas, which starts as early as 6th November ac- cording to the shops (the day after Guy Fawkes Night on 5th November), or even as early as August according to Selfridges, which is when their Christmas shop opened this year. Te good news is that these days Christmas is a big deal in the UK, unlike between 1647-1660 when Christmas was made illegal and all festivi- ties were banned during the short period of our one and only republic by Oliver Cromwell, who thought there was too much fun going on for a religious day. Luckily, we really know how to go to town properly these days.
Christmas Lights switch-on: lighting up and kicking off Christmas
Christmas really launches when the Christmas lights switch-on happen around London from early November. Te most famous ones are Oxford Street and Regent Street, but you will also find lovely lights in St Christopher’s Place, Marylebone High Street and Carnaby Street. It is a pretty important part of winter for us, es- pecially as the days start to become shorter
and sunset edges towards 15.50 on the shortest day, December 21st. Te switch on itself is surprisingly popular, and usu- ally will feature at least one minor, B-list celebrity (maybe somebody who won a TV singing or talent show). However, do not let that put you off and enjoy the excite- ment of the big countdown while you “oooh” and “ahhh” over the lights. Christmas is on its way!
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There is plenty to read at this time of year which can explain the old traditions of Christmas in the UK, and it is great to explore some of these age-old celebrations and festivities, but I really wanted to share with you the modern version of these traditions. The behaviours, habits and cus- toms which may baffle you if you are new to the UK, and which I am often asked about in my role as an English Language and British Culture trainer. So here is my guide to the top ways to get into Christmas (otherwise known as Xmas) in the UK. Explore and discover!
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Christmas jumpers: crazy patterns, flashing lights and pom-poms Now this one really confuses expats.
What is so exciting about a Christmas jumper, I hear you ask? Plenty! Traditionally Christmas jumpers were a joke, something terrible your granny knit- ted and gave you as a Christmas present. However, over time they have become trendy, and the more terrible and naff they are, the better. We even now have a Christmas Jumper Day, on December 14th this year, where you get to wear your jumper and raise money for charity. So, whether it is for work or pleasure, put on your most crazy, sparkly or flashing jumper and join in. Top tip: Primark is the best place to buy your Christmas jumper but the best ones sell out fast so make sure you get in there early.
Christmas TV Adverts: making you cry and selling presents
You do not have to work in retail to know Christmas is a big spending time, and to encourage us to get into the Christmas
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4 FOCUS The Magazine November/December 2018
www.focus-info.org
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Trafalgar Square
John Lewis Advert 2013
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