"Holiday customs in the U.S." - December 2020 Easy English NEWS

Summary

This video script discusses various holiday customs and traditions in the U.S., focusing on celebrations in December. It highlights the diverse observances, such as Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, along with typical holiday customs like gift-giving, sending holiday cards, and festive foods. The script also touches on holiday symbols like nativity scenes, menorahs, and Christmas trees, as well as the impact of COVID-19 on these traditions. It emphasizes changes to celebrations, including virtual events and gatherings, and advises safety precautions for family and friends during the holiday season.

Takeaways

• 😀 Christmas is celebrated on December 24 and 25 by Christians in the U.S.
• 🎉 Kwanzaa is observed by African Americans from December 26 to January 1.
• 🕎 Hanukkah lasts for eight days, falling in late November or December.
• 🎁 Giving gifts is a common custom, including to employees, delivery people, and charities.
• 📬 Sending holiday cards is a tradition, with busy people opting for email greetings.
• 🎄 Many people decorate their homes with a Christmas tree, nativity scenes, and other symbols.
• 🕯️ Hanukkah is symbolized by the menorah, dreidels, and gelt (chocolate coins).
• 🍽️ Holiday meals often include fish, turkey, ham, roast beef, or festive dishes like potato pancakes and candied yams.
• 🎶 Holiday music fills stores, radio stations, and TV programs, with caroling being a popular tradition.
• 📱 Virtual holiday events like Zoom parties and church services are gaining popularity, especially due to COVID-19 precautions.

Q & A

What are some of the common holiday customs in the United States during December?

The holiday customs in the U.S. include celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. Many people also give gifts to family, friends, and service workers, decorate their homes, and send holiday cards or greetings. Food and music are also a major part of the celebrations.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected holiday customs?

COVID-19 has changed some customs, particularly in how people celebrate. Social distancing measures have led to virtual holiday programs, parties, and services. People are advised to limit in-person gatherings, especially with family and friends.

What are some traditional foods associated with Christmas celebrations?

Traditional Christmas foods include cookies, fruitcakes, chocolates, seafood on Christmas Eve, and a main meal like roast beef, ham, or turkey on Christmas Day.

What is Kwanzaa, and when is it celebrated?

Kwanzaa is a holiday celebrated by African Americans from December 26 to January 1. It focuses on honoring African heritage and cultural values.

What are some symbols of the holiday season in the U.S.?

Common symbols include Christmas trees decorated with lights and ornaments, nativity scenes, candles, stockings, stars, bells, snowmen, and poinsettias. Hanukkah symbols include the menorah, dreidels, and Hanukkah gelt (chocolates). A dove on holiday cards often symbolizes peace.

How do people celebrate Hanukkah?

Hanukkah is celebrated over eight days, typically in late November or December. Families light the menorah, spin the dreidel, and enjoy foods like potato pancakes with applesauce and other festive treats.

What role do carols and music play in holiday celebrations?

Carols are traditional Christmas songs that can be heard in stores, on the radio, and on TV. People often go caroling, singing in the streets, hospitals, nursing homes, and shopping malls. Music adds to the festive atmosphere of the holiday season.

What are some ways people stay connected during the holiday season amidst the pandemic?

Due to the pandemic, many people are turning to virtual gatherings. Schools and families may host virtual parties, programs, or church services using platforms like Zoom or Skype to stay connected while maintaining social distancing.

What are some of the popular foods associated with Kwanzaa?

Popular Kwanzaa foods include chicken, vegetable dishes, candied yams, and pies, which reflect traditional African American culinary practices.

Why do people send gifts during the holiday season?

Giving gifts during the holiday season is a way of showing love and appreciation. People often give gifts not only to family and friends but also to employees, service workers, and charity organizations.