The modern Christmas we know began to take shape in Victorian times when
rowdy celebrations of earlier periods were transformed into a quieter,
family-focused festival. Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, along with
their nine children, played a significant role in these changes. Albert
popularized Christmas trees from Germany in 1840, a trend that quickly
caught on, and decorating them with lights and presents became a Christmas
Day tradition. Victorian children received modest gifts like sweets or
nuts, while wealthier kids might expect the latest technological toys. The
practice of giving 'Christmas Box' tips to servants and tradesmen on 26
December, known as 'Boxing Day,' also emerged during this period. Other
now-familiar Christmas elements originated in Victorian times, including
printed Christmas cards, Christmas crackers, and the tradition of eating
turkey instead of goose, along with Christmas pudding. The arrival of
'Santa Claus' and his reindeer sleigh came from America in the 1870s.
Learn more at English-Heritag