Ghosts of Christmas: The Tradition of Telling Scary Stories at Christmastime

When we think of Christmas, images of twinkling lights, festive feasts, and the warmth of family gatherings come to mind. 

But for centuries, the festive season has also been a time for something darker: the telling of ghost stories. 

This curious tradition, though less prominent today, remains an integral part of Christmas lore, with Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol standing as its most famous example. 

Why do some cultures embrace the macabre during a season of joy? The answer lies in the interplay of history, psychology, and storytelling.

A Winter Tradition Rooted in Darkness

The origins of Christmas ghost stories can be traced back to ancient winter traditions. In pre-Christian Europe, the long, dark nights of winter were believed to be a time when the veil between the living and the dead grew thin. Pagan festivals like Yule celebrated the solstice with fire and storytelling, often featuring spirits and supernatural forces. These tales served as a way to make sense of the harsh, unforgiving winter landscape and to pass the time during the bleakest months.

With the advent of Christianity, many pagan customs were absorbed into Christmas celebrations. The idea of telling ghost stories persisted, particularly in Victorian England, when the practice reached its peak. The Victorians had a fascination with the supernatural, and the Christmas season provided the perfect backdrop for eerie tales. Gathered around a roaring fire, families would share stories that blended the chill of winter with the warmth of communal storytelling.

Dickens and the Christmas Ghost Story

No discussion of Christmas ghost stories would be complete without Charles Dickens. His 1843 novella A Christmas Carol is a cornerstone of the tradition, weaving a tale of redemption through the intervention of spectral visitors. 

The ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come are not merely frightening apparitions; they serve as moral guides, forcing Ebenezer Scrooge to confront the consequences of his actions.

Dickens’ story captures the essence of why ghost stories resonate during Christmas. The season is a time of reflection, not just celebration. As the year draws to a close, people naturally look back on their lives, their choices, and their relationships. Ghost stories, with their themes of regret, redemption, and the passage of time, align perfectly with this introspective mood.

Moreover, Dickens’ work reflects the Victorian preoccupation with social justice and the plight of the poor. The ghosts in A Christmas Carol are not just there to frighten Scrooge; they are there to challenge him to change. In this way, the ghost story becomes a moral fable, using the supernatural to illuminate human truths.

The Psychological Appeal of Fear at Christmas

Why do we seek out fear during a season of joy? Psychologists suggest that scary stories offer a safe way to confront our anxieties. The darkness of winter, the pressure of familial expectations, and the end-of-year reckoning can all contribute to a sense of unease. Ghost stories provide a cathartic outlet, allowing us to explore these fears in a controlled environment.

Additionally, the communal nature of storytelling—whether around a fire or in the pages of a book—creates a sense of connection. Sharing a shiver-inducing tale brings people together, reinforcing bonds and reminding us of our shared humanity.

The Decline and Resurgence of the Tradition

While the tradition of Christmas ghost stories waned in the 20th century, it has seen a resurgence in recent years. Television adaptations of A Christmas Carol, festive ghost story anthologies, and even podcasts dedicated to spooky seasonal tales have rekindled interest. Writers like M.R. James and Susan Hill have also contributed to the canon of Christmas ghost stories, proving that the appetite for a good scare during the festive season endures.

The tradition of telling ghost stories at Christmastime may seem incongruous with the season’s message of joy and goodwill, but it is, in fact, deeply rooted in our cultural and psychological landscape. 

From the pagan solstice to Dickens’ timeless classic, these tales remind us that Christmas is not just a celebration of light but also a confrontation with darkness. As you gather with loved ones this holiday season, perhaps you’ll be inspired to revive the tradition. 

After all, what better way to keep the cold at bay than with a chilling tale?

The Perfect Yuletide Hot Toddy: A Warming Comfort for Christmas

As winter settles in and Christmas approaches, there's nothing quite like the warmth and cheer of a hot toddy to lift the spirits—especially if you’re feeling a bit under the weather. 

This classic drink combines the soothing power of hot water, honey, and spices with a splash of whisky or rum, creating a delicious remedy for a sore throat or cold. Let’s get into how to craft the perfect Yuletide hot toddy to keep you cosy this festive season.

Why the Hot Toddy?

The hot toddy has been a trusted remedy for generations, thanks to its comforting ingredients. Here’s what each component brings to the table:

Hot Water: Essential for hydration and warmth, which help ease congestion and soothe scratchy throats.

Honey: Known for its antibacterial properties, honey coats the throat and calms a cough while adding a hint of sweetness.

Lemon: High in Vitamin C, lemon adds a citrusy brightness and can boost immunity.

Whisky or Rum: A small splash (or more, if you prefer) helps to relax, warms from the inside, and can relieve minor aches.

Spices (Cinnamon and Cloves): These add festive flair while providing additional antibacterial and antiviral benefits.

Ingredients for the Perfect Hot Toddy

To make a classic Yuletide hot toddy, you’ll need:

1 mug of hot water (not boiling)

1-2 teaspoons honey (Manuka honey, if you have it, for extra immune benefits)

1-2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (about a quarter of a lemon)

1 shot (25-50 ml) whisky or dark rum

1 cinnamon stick (or ground cinnamon) 

2-3 cloves

Optional:

Star anise for added warmth and flavour

Thin slice of fresh ginger if you fancy an extra kick

How to Make the Perfect Hot Toddy

Start with a mug: Pour the hot water into your favourite festive mug to warm it up. Swirl it around, then pour out the water to keep your drink hot.

Add the Honey and Lemon: Add the honey and lemon juice to your empty mug. Stir to blend them well. The warmth of the water will dissolve the honey quickly and help release the lemon’s natural oils.

Pour in the Alcohol: Add your choice of whisky or rum. For a more robust toddy, go with whisky; for something smoother, rum works beautifully.

Infuse with Spices: Drop in the cinnamon stick and cloves. If you’re using star anise or fresh ginger, add them now as well. Let everything steep for a couple of minutes to bring out the rich, spicy notes.

Top with Hot Water: Pour in the hot water, being careful not to let it boil, as boiling water can diminish the flavours of the honey and alcohol.

Garnish and Enjoy: Add a slice of lemon or orange for a festive touch and an extra dose of Vitamin C. Let the toddy sit for a minute before sipping to allow the spices to infuse fully.

Customising Your Yuletide Hot Toddy

There’s no “one-size-fits-all” for the perfect hot toddy. Here are a few ways to tailor it to your tastes:

Add Fresh Herbs: A sprig of rosemary or thyme adds a savoury twist and is packed with antioxidants.

Try Herbal Tea: Instead of plain hot water, use a soothing herbal tea like chamomile, peppermint, or ginger. This creates an extra layer of flavour and can bring additional health benefits.

Sweeten to Taste: If honey isn’t your favourite, try maple syrup or a spoonful of golden syrup for a different kind of sweetness.

When to Enjoy Your Hot Toddy

A hot toddy is perfect in the evening, whether you're winding down by the fire or easing the symptoms of a cold. The blend of warmth, honey, and spices can help you drift off to sleep and feel relaxed during the season’s most hectic moments.

Remember, while the hot toddy is deliciously comforting, it’s still an alcoholic drink, so enjoy in moderation. If you’re taking medication or are unwell, a non-alcoholic toddy—substituting the whisky or rum with apple cider or simply more water—can still be just as soothing.

A Toast to Health and Comfort

The Yuletide hot toddy is more than just a drink; it’s a symbol of the warmth and comfort we seek during the winter months. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment alone, this toddy will bring you both cheer and calm. So, wrap yourself in a cosy blanket, put on your favourite Christmas jumper, and let the magic of this festive drink work its charm.

Here’s to health, warmth, and a very merry Christmas!

PS I wrote this after sipping on a hot toddy very kindly mixed for me by my wife!)

Boost Your Immunity: Foods and Supplements to Keep Cold, Flu, and Other Bugs at Bay for Christmas

As the days grow shorter and colder, we enter the season of sniffles, coughs, and seasonal bugs. 

With Christmas and New Year around the corner, it's more important than ever to safeguard your health so you can enjoy the festive season without battling a cold or flu. 

Whilst vaccines and good hygiene are vitally important, a strong immune system can make all the difference. Here’s a guide to foods and supplements that can give your body the extra edge against winter infections.

1. Load Up on Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of the most well-known immune-boosting nutrients, essential for stimulating the production of white blood cells, which are vital in fighting infections. Luckily, this vitamin is easy to find in a variety of fruits and vegetables:

Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes are packed with Vitamin C, and a fresh glass of citrus juice is a great way to start your day.

Bell peppers have even more Vitamin C than most citrus fruits.

Kiwis, strawberries, and guava are also excellent choices and make delicious, seasonal additions to fruit salads or snacks.

If fresh options are limited, consider a Vitamin C supplement. For most people, 500-1000 mg per day can give a good boost, but consult your GP if you're considering higher doses.

2. Don’t Forget Zinc

Zinc is another powerful ally against colds. It can help reduce the duration of cold symptoms if taken at the first sign of illness. You can find zinc in foods like:

Red meat, poultry, and shellfish (especially oysters) are rich in zinc.

Pumpkin seeds, beans, and chickpeas provide a vegetarian-friendly zinc source.

For a preventive boost, consider a daily zinc supplement, especially during peak cold and flu season.

3. Boost Your Vitamin D Levels

In the UK, where sunshine can be scarce during the winter months, many people become deficient in Vitamin D. This vitamin plays a critical role in immune function, helping to prevent infections and fight viruses. Foods high in Vitamin D include:

Oily fish (such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines)

Egg yolks and fortified cereals

Mushrooms (especially those exposed to sunlight)

For many, a Vitamin D supplement is necessary during the winter. The NHS recommends adults consider a daily supplement of 10 micrograms (400 IU) during autumn and winter.

4. Probiotics: Support Your Gut Health

Did you know that a large portion of your immune system resides in your gut? Healthy gut flora help regulate immune responses and protect against harmful pathogens. Foods rich in probiotics can boost gut health and improve your immune defences:

Yoghurt, especially those with live cultures, is a good source of beneficial bacteria.

Kefir and kombucha also provide diverse strains of probiotics.

Fermented vegetables like sauerkraut, kimchi, and pickles are tangy and immune-friendly.

Consider a probiotic supplement if you’re not a fan of fermented foods. Look for one with multiple strains and a high colony-forming unit (CFU) count for maximum benefit.

5. Spice It Up with Garlic and Ginger

Garlic and ginger are two pantry powerhouses that offer incredible immune-supporting properties:

Garlic is known for its antiviral and antibacterial properties, making it effective against colds. Try adding it to soups, stews, or even roasted veg.

Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It can soothe sore throats and aid digestion. A warming ginger tea with honey can help relieve early cold symptoms.

Both garlic and ginger supplements are available, but fresh options often provide the best benefit.

6. Go Green with Leafy Vegetables

Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that support the immune system. They’re rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and folate—all important for cell repair and protection. You can incorporate greens into smoothies, soups, or even as a side dish to keep your immune system in top form.

7. Add Elderberry and Echinacea for Extra Protection

Elderberry and echinacea are two herbal supplements often associated with fighting respiratory infections. Research suggests they may help reduce the severity and length of colds:

Elderberry is packed with antioxidants and is thought to combat viruses directly. Syrup or capsules are both convenient options.

Echinacea is often taken as a tea, tincture, or capsule and may help reduce inflammation and cold symptoms.

Always follow the dosage instructions and consult your GP if you have any underlying conditions before adding these herbs to your routine.

8. Hydrate with Herbal Teas and Bone Broth

Staying hydrated is key to keeping your immune system strong, as it helps flush out toxins and maintain mucus membranes in the respiratory tract. A few immune-boosting drinks to keep on hand include:

Herbal teas such as chamomile, peppermint, and green tea offer antioxidants and soothing effects.

Bone broth is nutrient-dense, providing amino acids and minerals that help support immune function and gut health.

If you’re feeling under the weather, warm drinks also help relieve sore throats and congestion.

9. Sleep and Stress Management

While not a food or supplement, quality sleep and stress management are vital for a strong immune system. Chronic stress and lack of sleep can lower immune defences, making it easier for colds and flu to take hold. Try practising mindfulness, meditation, or light exercise, and aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to keep your immune system resilient.

In Summary

With the right combination of nutrient-rich foods and well-chosen supplements, you can help your body fend off common colds, flu, and other infections this winter. As you prepare for a cosy Christmas and New Year, taking these small steps will ensure you’re well-protected and ready to enjoy the festivities in good health.

Disclaimer: This guide is meant for general health information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your GP before starting any new supplements, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take other medications.

Brew Your Own Christmas Beer at Home Using a Beer Kit: A Step-by-Step Guide

As Christmas approaches, what better way to bring some festive cheer to the table than with a homemade brew? 

Using a beer kit, you can craft a personalised batch just in time for Christmastime. 

Beer kits offer an approachable, fairly easy, way for beginners to get into the art of brewing, and with a bit of patience and planning, you’ll have your own flavourful ale to share with friends and family. 

Here’s a detailed, easy-to-follow guide to get you started.

Step 1: Choose Your Beer Kit

To make things easy, start with a pre-assembled beer kit, which typically includes a can of malt extract (the base for the beer), hops, and yeast. The type of kit you select will determine the style and flavour of your beer, so think about what will complement your Christmas feast!

Popular Kit Styles for Christmas:

Porter or Stout: Dark, rich, and often with notes of chocolate or coffee, these heavier beers pair well with colder weather.

IPA or Pale Ale: Bright and hoppy, these can cut through rich dishes and add a refreshing counterpoint.

Winter Warmer or Spiced Ale: Some kits may even have hints of nutmeg, cinnamon, or orange peel, making for a truly festive experience.

Step 2: Gather Your Equipment

You’ll need a few extra tools to brew at home with a beer kit. Some essential equipment includes:

Fermentation bucket (25-litre capacity recommended)

Hydrometer: To measure alcohol content

Sterilising solution: Essential for cleanliness

Bottles and caps: 40-50 bottles for a standard kit

Siphon and bottling wand: For transferring and bottling

You can usually find complete starter kits online or at home-brewing shops, which have all the equipment bundled together.

Step 3: Sterilise Everything

Proper sterilisation is critical to ensure that your beer doesn’t develop any off-flavours or become contaminated. Use a sterilising solution to clean all your equipment, including the fermentation bucket, stirring spoon, siphon, and bottles. Follow the instructions on the steriliser, usually letting it sit for at least 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with warm water.

Step 4: Mix and Boil the Ingredients

Follow these steps to begin brewing:

Heat the malt extract: Place the can of malt extract in hot water for 5-10 minutes to make it easier to pour.

Add water and malt to the bucket: Pour the malt extract into the sterilised fermentation bucket and add hot water (about 5 litres) to dissolve it. Stir until well combined.

Top up with cold water: Fill the bucket with enough cold water to bring it to the recommended volume (usually around 23 litres). This should bring the temperature down to the range needed for fermentation (around 18-24°C, depending on your yeast).

Step 5: Pitch the Yeast

Once your wort (unfermented beer) is at the right temperature, it’s time to “pitch” the yeast. Sprinkle the yeast on top of the wort, then cover the fermentation bucket with its lid, making sure to fit the airlock. The airlock allows gas to escape during fermentation without letting contaminants in. Place your bucket somewhere cool, dark, and steady – ideally around 18-22°C, as extreme temperatures can kill the yeast or affect fermentation.

Step 6: Let It Ferment

For most beer kits, fermentation will take about 7-10 days. You’ll know fermentation has started when bubbles begin to escape through the airlock after about 24 hours. To ensure fermentation is complete, take a reading with your hydrometer on day 7 and again on day 10. If the readings are the same, fermentation is finished.

Step 7: Bottling Your Beer

Once fermentation is complete, it’s time to bottle:

Priming sugar: Add a small amount of priming sugar (about 5 grams per litre) to each bottle to carbonate the beer. This sugar will ferment in the bottle, creating fizz.

Siphoning: Use the siphon to transfer beer from the fermentation bucket into the bottles, avoiding any sediment at the bottom. Fill each bottle up, leaving a little space at the top.

Cap and store: Cap each bottle securely and store them in a cool, dark place for around two weeks. This will allow the beer to carbonate. 

Here's a tip: For safety reasons only ever use pressurised bottles.

Step 8: Age and Enjoy!

While your beer will be drinkable after two weeks in the bottle, giving it a few more weeks to mature will enhance the flavour. Brew your beer in early November, and it will be ready to pour by Christmas.

Tips for a Festive Twist

For an added Christmas touch, you can add a few spices like cinnamon sticks, cloves, or even orange peel to the fermentation bucket. Just be sparing – a small amount can go a long way!

Final Thoughts

Homebrewing is a brilliant way to add a personal touch to your holiday festivities. With a bit of time and patience, you’ll have a homemade beer ready for sharing (or gifting) come Christmas day. Cheers to a merry and malty Christmas!

An online supplier of homebrew products is Brew Genie:- https://www.brewgenie.co.uk

Unwrap the Magic of Winter at Butser's Alternative Christmas Event: ‘Midwinter's Magical Quest’

We at That's Christmas were wondering what the Butser Ancient Farm were doing for the Christmas period... and now we know!

Families can join them for under £35 and leave with a deeper understanding of Winter folklore, delightful crafts, and magical memories.

Butser Ancient Farm in the South Downs is opening to the public this Winter and inviting families to embark on an enchanting festive adventure to escape commercial Christmas, honour nature and bring ancient traditions to life in a very special way.

As an alternative to the Father Christmas experience, Midwinter’s Magical Quest honours the balance of the feminine and masculine energies as the season turns. The majestic Deer Queen and jolly Holly King are back in Butser’s ancient dwellings and need your help to complete their quest and help celebrate the turning of the year.

The Holly King will greet all questers in their Saxon House, which is beautifully recreated from foundations excavated close to the neighbouring village of Chalton. This Winter it will be transformed into the Holly King’s Evergreen Hall, where visitors can make evergreen crowns and decorations to put a Spring in their step ready for the adventure. 

The Holly King is the personification of Winter in folklore and his power peaks in Midwinter before he hands the crown over to his brother The Oak King of Summer. The everlasting cycle of the Oak and Holly brothers reflects the seasonal cycles of solar light and dark, renewal and growth.

As you follow the trail of folklore and lost traditions, you’ll come to Little Woodbury, their great Iron Age roundhouse. 

The roundhouse will become the Realm of Winter Wishes where families who are visiting can cast their hopes and dreams into the wishing tree and learn the ancient craft of corn dolly making to find a hidden message for the Deer Queen.

Once questers have pieced together the magic throughout the trail, they will find the Deer Queen’s Grotto in Butser’s reconstructed Neolithic Horton House, which originally stood around 3800-3600 BC. Visitors will be able to share the knowledge they have collected to give Mother Deer what she needs to make the journey to return the Sun to the land safely on the Winter Solstice.

The Deer Queen is an important part of Butser’s event, bringing a female presence to this Wintery time of year. The character has been inspired by an ancient folktale from Northern Europe that tells of the brave Mother Deer who must journey South to bring the sun goddess back to warm the lands again. It has been said that this ancient story is the origin of Rudolph. Unlike other deer, both female and male reindeers have antlers.

The difference is, after the Autumn rutting season the males lose their antlers while the females keep theirs to protect their precious growing fawns. Throughout the years and even today the deer and her antlers are drawn as the tree of life, carrying everything from small animals to celestial bodies within them. So, when you see antlered reindeer pulling Santa’s sleigh in Midwinter you can be sure that Rudolph and her gang are unmistakably girls!

They are aware that ancient sites in Britain have clear evidence of celebration at this time of year, with sites like Newgrange in Ireland and Stonehenge aligned with Winter sun. They also have evidence that ever since the Stone Age people around the world have revered the deer, with her image painted on cave walls, etched in stone and tattooed on skin.

Kristin Devey, Events Coordinator at Butser Ancient Farm, shared her excitement about the upcoming event: “We are really thrilled to open the farm to the public once again this winter, offering a chance for more people to experience the wonder of Butser during this special time of year. 

Families can join us for under £35 and leave with a deeper understanding of Winter folklore, delightful crafts, and magical memories. Whether you're celebrating Solstice, Yule, or simply seeking a unique family Christmas day out, 'Midwinter's Magical Quest' offers an inclusive and non-denominational celebration that appeals to all. We invite local families to join us for a memorable and magical experience that honours the wonders of the season and its ancient traditions.”

Event Details and Ticket Information

The Midwinter's Magical Quest trail runs from 10am to 3:30pm on Saturday December 2nd, Sunday December 3rd, Saturday December 9th, and Sunday December 10th, 2023. Butser Ancient Farm also features a full schedule of festive events, including Tales of Winter Magic, Festive Fireside Storytelling, and a Winter Solstice Celtic Celebration complete with drumming, poetry, and prose.

Tickets for Midwinter's Magical Quest are available on the Butser Ancient Farm website at https://www.butserancientfarm.co.uk/christmas-yule-winter-events.

Butser Ancient Farm is a living history museum nestled in the picturesque Hampshire countryside. The farm offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the lives of our ancient ancestors through reconstructed buildings, authentic crafts, and immersive events.

Despite its humble beginnings as a research site 50 years ago, Butser Ancient Farm has become one of the South East’s top visitor attractions welcoming visitors throughout the year including some 35,000 schoolchildren who learn about the lives of our ancient ancestors from the Stone Age through to the Anglo-Saxon periods. As a not-for-profit, independently run community interest company (CIC) they rely on the support of many organisations and individuals, as well as their own fundraising events, to make their research and education work possible. More about the farm can be found at www.butserancientfarm.co.uk