Christmas has been celebrated since ancient times, but it only became a widely observed holiday during the Middle Ages. In the 4th century AD, the Roman Empire officially declared December 25th as a holiday to celebrate the birth of Jesus. However, the traditions and customs associated with Christmas have evolved over time, including the practice of exchanging gifts, decorating trees, and singing carols. Today, Christmas is celebrated by millions of people around the world as a symbol of peace, joy, and love.