when did christmas start

Christmas as we know it today began around the fourth century AD, when Saint Nicholas, also known as Santa Claus, began giving gifts to children in his parish. He was said to be a kind and generous man who wanted to spread the message of peace and love during the holiday season. In the early days, people celebrated Christmas with simple gatherings, feasts, and the exchange of gifts. It wasn't until later that the Christmas traditions we know today, such as decorating trees, hanging stockings, and singing carols, became popular.