The Origins of Christmas Legends and Traditions We Didn’t Know

Once upon a time, celebrating Christmas was a no-go in Massachusetts, of all places. This wasn’t a modern-day decision but a 1659 throwback, courtesy of the Puritans. These New England settlers, wanting to distance themselves from the Church of England and its festive traditions, frowned upon Christmas, seeing it more as a day of debauchery than a religious celebration.

In a bold move against British influence, the Puritans banned the holiday, a prohibition that lasted for 22 years. Fast forward to the 1800s, and Boston was just warming up to widespread Christmas celebrations long after the ban was lifted. So, it turns out, the city known for its Tea Party was also the stage for a historic “No Christmas” party.