Saturnalia: The Pagan Origins of Christmas

Wreaths, gift-giving, elaborate feasting...these are just some of the traditional practices associated with Christmas. But it might surprise you to learn that the Christian holiday was by no means the first to incorporate such practices. That's because they were borrowed from an earlier, pagan holiday celebrated each year by the Romans: Saturnalia. How exactly did this ancient holiday come about? What were some of its traditions and characteristics? And how did it ultimately disappear? Find out in this brief winter solstice and Christmas special!