A Wonderful Time of the Year
Thanksgiving and Black Friday have passed, and the winter season is upon us. Across America and across the world, people will be celebrating in their own ways and carrying on their own traditions.
Hanukkah, the 8-day Jewish observance, begins December 18. Also called the Festival of Lights, the ritual of lighting a candle of the menorah each night is a symbol of the miracle of one day's worth of oil lasting for 8 days. The ninth candle is used to light the others.
Christmas is celebrated December 25, and Christmas Eve is also a special time. While Christians celebrate the birth of Christ, it's also a traditional time for families to gather and exchange gifts.
In Britain and the Commonwealth countries, Boxing Day is December 26. The holiday began under Queen Victoria. The tradition was started with the intent for upper class families to give their servants the day off and give them a gift.
Kwaanza is a week-long cultural holiday celebrating African heritage, beginning the day after Christmas and lasting through January 1. Kwaanza was started by Black activitst Maulana Karenga, and first celebrated in 1966. There are seven key principles of Kwanzaa: unity; self-determination; collective responsibility; cooperative economics; purpose; creativity; and faith. The name Kwaanza comes from the Swahili phrase matunda ya kwanza, or first fruits. Gathering friends and family for music, traditional foods, and storytelling are a big part of the celebration.
No matter where you are or what you celebrate, we wish you and yours joyous holidays. We give thanks for the US military the world over and appreciate their sacrifice of being away from home and family. We give thanks for the first responders and medical personnel who don't get the holidays off. We give thanks for our loyal customers.
Peace on Earth and Goodwill to Humankind.
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