Scottish Christmas traditions: Here are 6 Scottish traditions and folklore at Christmas time
From marking the winter solstice to scaring children with a sinister creature come to punish them for being naughty – here are some historic Christmas traditions from Scotland.
By Rachel Mackie
Published 24th Dec 2022, 04:45 BST
Tis the season to be jolly, and we have many traditions to bring us all closer together, from sharing turkey dinners to singing Christmas songs.
Here are a few interesting Scottish traditions and festive folklore that you might, or might not, know about.
Fire had great symbolism for the ancient Celts, and these traditions still bleed into modern day. Scots would light a candle in the window to help guide travellers safely on their journey. Fire can also represent the sun during the winter solstice. Photo: Wikicommons
Yule bread is made on Shetland and Orkney to celebrate the ancient belief that the sun would stand still for 12 days during winter. They celebrated, and baked bread to bring prosperity through out the coming year. Photo: Wikicommons
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