Buddy: Christmas is a holiday with a fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. While it is true that many of the traditions we associate with Christmas, such as gift giving and spending time with family, have their roots in pagan festivals, the holiday itself has been Christianized over the centuries. The birth of Jesus is the focus of the celebration, but many of the customs and traditions surrounding Christmas have been adapted from pre-Christian cultures. So, while Christmas does have pagan roots, it has become a primarily Christian holiday.