Holiday-Themed Song of the Day: "Shaka Kalikimaka":
By IMUA (Albert Akiona, Dave Duraway), from
Shaka Kalikimaka. This CD of mostly Christmas-themed tunes is done in great Hawaiian folk fashion, complete with ukulele solos.
Strange Solstice Factoid:
In 1647, the British government banned the celebration of Christmas, because it too closely resembled the pagan traditions associated with the Winter Solstice.
Holiday Tradition of the Day: Gift Giving:
The tradition of gift giving began for the Winter holidays was a big focus of the Roman Pagan festival of Saturnalia. During Saturnalia, gifts were given to honor Saturn - the god of Agriculture. The tradition was based on the notion that, despite the lack of abundance in the winter, the Roman Pagans ceremoniously exchanged gifts to commemorate their trust in Saturn's ability to continue to provide for them.
Gift of the Day:
American Folk Songs for Christmas, by Mike, Peggy, and Penny Seeger (Rounder, 1989). Undoubtably one of the best holiday Folk albums around, by one of the most talented families in American Folk Music.
