摘要：The joy of Christmas The traditional Christmas celebrations that were the precursors of modern Christmas parties were widely held among all classes in the town and country from the 16th to the 19th century. From the day after Christmas to the Epiphany, and 72 sometimes right through to Candlemas, festivities were lively. The more mature citizens enjoyed large quantities of beer and spirits, food and card games. In contrast young people amused themselves with singing and more or less indecent Christmas games. These Christmas gatherings were often riotous, and by no means a religious observance of the birth of Christ. Material illustrating the Christmas gatherings is scarce, but on the other hand the written sources are highly informative.
