Jaded,  Many years ago I spent quite a bit of time and a good chunk of change researching the Christmas Season and its origins.  It was enjoyable, rewarding, and it  caused me and many in my family to extend the season (both ways).  Our Christmas in the US is really a huge mash-up of many traditions, customs, and economic policies/realities.  But the one single event that jump starts the Christmas Season in England and the US is the publication of Charles Dickens', "A Christmas Carol" in 1843.  Part of our family's Christmas traditions is to watch a different version of "A Christmas Carol" each year.  We must own ten or more (probably more) versions of it on blu-ray and DVD.  Everyone has their favorite which changes as family members grow older.  The really cool thing, my kids are now starting to get married and will one day have kids of their own and my wife and I get to start all over again!

I hope you're staying warm, cozy, and enjoying the Season, Merry Christmas!