A Scottish Christmas, filled with customs old and new, skits, games, food and merriments, survives the 1652 British Parliament act banning Christmas as too pagan and pope-ish. Reinstated a decade later, the Scots have spent the 350 years since blending Celtic customs with modern day traditions giving Christmas holidays a special Scottish glow.

 

Often referred to as MacNicholas, the Scottish Father Christmas, dressed in Highland costume, brings all the necessary trimmings for an authentic Scottish yuletide. His sack carries a Scottish Pine tree, brightly wrapped packages, a bright blue fishing boat, and a West Highland white terrier all certain to light up the eyes of a wee lad or lassie. The ubiquitous Yule log, tied to the sack and wrapped in ribbon and mistletoe, will be placed in the hearth where the fire has been rekindled with the remnants of the previous year’s Yule log. Wassail is a favorite among the delicious foods and beverages served at Christmas time. This drink, consisting of ale, roast apples, eggs, sugar, and spices, is stirred up for young and old alike. Tis customary to leave a meat pie and a jug of wassail for Father Christmas, much like we leave milk and cookies for Santa. MacNicholas raises his mug of wassail to toast in the season and his trusty Scottish terrier yaps in agreement. Soon the two are off on their journey through the snow dusted mountains and valleys of Scotland.