is christmas pagan holiday

*Santa pauses for a moment, considering your question.* "Christmas is indeed a Christian holiday, but it also incorporates elements of various pagan traditions. The date of December 25th, for example, was chosen to coincide with the winter solstice, a time of year that was celebrated by many pagan cultures. Additionally, the tradition of decorating a Christmas tree has roots in pagan rituals that were used to welcome the return of the sun after the long winter months. While Christmas has become a predominantly Christian holiday, it is also influenced by various other cultural traditions and beliefs."