was christmas pagan

Christmas has a long and complex history. The holiday we now know as Christmas has its roots in pagan festivals that were celebrated in Europe long before the arrival of Christianity. In fact, the name "Christmas" itself comes from the Old English word "Cristesmæsse," which means "Christ's mass." Over time, Christmas evolved into a more Christian holiday, but it still retains many elements of its pagan origins. For example, the tradition of decorating a Christmas tree is believed to have originated from pagan practices of bringing evergreen trees into the home to symbolize the return of the sun.