Though it differs slightly in each community the Christmas season is celebrated by the Amish. This is a very special time, one to reflect on the true reason for the season and with large families large, can last until February.
In anticipation of the holiday, many Amish families decorate with greens inside their homes. Christmas cards are hung, or displayed, and no one anticipates a Santa Claus to be visiting. Our friend’s children make cards every year by stamping out shapes, adding color and sweet inspirational phrases, and they are such a gift when you receive one. Some more liberal communities may hang wreaths and stars, but you will find no lights blinking to the tune of Jingle Bells. Christmas cookies and candy are made all through the season for family, friends, and neighbors.
A Christmas program is usually planned at the schoolhouse each year. Amish children will put up decorations, sing songs, tell stories that often spur a few laughs, and sometimes small skits are put on. This is a highlight and one I have enjoyed so much being a part of. Though the Amish are private, they often invite their English friends and neighbors to attend the festive event!
On Christmas, candles are lit and placed in the windows of Amish homes to represent the birth of Christ, but just like any day, chores are to be done. Tending to livestock is not set aside. After breakfast, and the reading of the first Christmas from the Bible, children are free to open presents from their parents. There is no abundance in gifts and they can range from shotguns to older boys, sewing machine for older girls, to books and dolls and games. Contrary to what you read, Amish children do love playing with dolls with faces. Sports equipment is a favorable gift. Basketball goals, bats and gloves, and even volleyball nets are happily received as well as homemade items such as quilts or a wooden gift. Women may receive china while men a much needed tool for the farm or shop.
The traditional Christmas dinner is usually the highlight of the season. Some communities may fast on Christmas Day, but they too will celebrate the day after, “Second Christmas”. It’s a time for visiting family, exchanging gifts, and enjoying food and fellowship. The Christmas meal is usually quite elaborate including roasted chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, salads, fruits, breads, cakes, cookies, pies and candies. After Second Christmas, the Amish will continue to host Christmas dinners and parties for their family and friends.
And while we are all tucking away the glitter and lights and trees, they will be preparing for “Old Christmas” on January 6th. Always exactly twelve days after Christmas, January 6th is the traditional date of the Three Wise Men visiting Bethlehem to find the baby Jesus. Overall, the main focus of the Christmas season in the Amish home is to honor and celebrate Christ. While much time is devoted to prayer and scripture, spending time with the family in relaxation and laughter is just as important to the Amish community.