“Unlocking the Festive Vault: Discover 11 Bizarre Christmas Laws That Will Leave You Speechless!”
Ironically, the strictness around Christmas celebrations made many Scots wary of the holiday for years, and it didn’t become widely celebrated until the 20th century.
4. No Dancing on Christmas in Geneva
The Protestant reformer John Calvin wasn’t a fan of dancing, especially on holy days like Christmas. In 16th-century Geneva, his strict laws banned public dancing, singing, and even too much laughter during the holidays.
Calvin’s rules aimed to keep celebrations focused on religious devotion, but they sucked much of the joy out of Christmas for locals. The ban eventually faded, but not before creating a long-standing reputation for grim festivities.
5. Christmas Trees Banned in North Korea
In North Korea, Christmas celebrations, including Christmas trees, are banned. The government discourages any public acknowledgment of the holiday, claiming it distracts from state ideologies.
Despite the ban, underground Christian communities still celebrate in secret, proving that the spirit of Christmas can endure even under oppressive regimes.
6. Christmas Eve Fasting Required in Medieval Europe
In the Middle Ages, the weeks leading up to Christmas Eve were a strict period of fasting for many Christians in Europe. Eating anything beyond bread and water was frowned upon, as the people followed the adage “fast before you feast”.
