One of our favorite things about working with our Amish builders has been learning about their time-honored traditions that guide the way they live their lives. Over the past 17 years, we’ve had the pleasure of joining our craftsmen in their homes, around campfires and barbecues, and at weddings and other special occasions.
You may be wondering, like we once did, if the Amish celebrate Christmas. They most certainly do, but, of course, in their own unique way.
A few fun facts for you:
1. The Amish keep Christmas simple
There are no extravagantly decorated trees, twinkling lights, or wish lists for Santa. Instead, Amish Christmas is centered around family and the religious meaning of the holiday. They do, like us, make special Christmas cookies and candies to share with friends and family.
2. Gift giving is meaningful but modest
It’s common for Amish school children to pick names and exchange small gifts, like writing paper or a needlepoint kit, with a fellow classmate. Families may exchange small gifts with one another, too
3. Christmas card making is a popular tradition
Many Amish adults and children enjoy making handmade stamped Christmas cards, often to send to their “English” (what the Amish call non-Amish) friends.
4. Many Amish celebrate Christmas TWICE (or more!)
For some Amish, December 25th is day of fasting and prayer, choosing to observe what we consider a more traditional Christmas the day after. Second Christmas, as it’s known, usually involves an elaborate meal of turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, fruits, Christmas pudding (cream cheese layered with red and green gelatin), and lots of desserts. Some Amish communities even celebrate “Old Christmas” on January 6th to mark the date the Three Wise Men arrived in Bethlehem to visit the baby Jesus. Gatherings to enjoy food and fellowship may even extend into January and February of the new year!
However you choose to celebrate, we wish you a blessed holiday season!
