A daily treasury of traditions, recipes, crafts, stories and songs from around the world to inspire, enjoy and reflect on in the build-up to and celebration of Christmas.

"I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year." - Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol

The traditions of Christmas are some of our most cherished. The making of an advent wreath, decorating a tree, the taste of a mince pie or the sound of carols are customs that we share with family and friends and which herald the festive season.

Enjoy the build up to Christmas with The Little Book of Advent, offering an insight into some of the world's best-loved festive traditions. From advent wreaths and christingles, to pantomime and wassail, Hogmany and Mari Lwyd, get ready for and celebrate Christmas and its traditions, foods and stories.

Take a break from the rush of the festive season with stories, poems and songs celebrating Christmas, the solstice and wintertide. Allow yourself some time to reflect on the turning of the year; make delicious seasonal treats from around the world and bring the season into your home and discover the Christmas traditions that will become part of your celebrations for years to come.