Did you know that Christmas was banned?
Written 19th July 2022 | Subscribe to our Christmas newsletter
There was a time when Christmas was banned in the United Kingdom. If it wasn't thanks to our ancestors causing riots, we wouldn't have Christmas today.
Image credit: Portrait of Oliver Cromwell, attributed to Jonathan Richardson the Elder, which hangs at Boscobel House in Shropshire © Historic England DP100659
Oliver Cromwell reigned as Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England (Wales was part of England), Scotland and Ireland during 1653 - 1658.
During this time in June 1647 strick laws were passed in parliament to stop anyone attending a Christmas church service, Christmas and other religious festivals were abolished! Meaning Christmas was officially illegal.
Christmas was seen as a wasteful festival that threatened Christian beliefs. it was a dishonour to God.
Shops were told to stay open on 25 December and any food prepared for Christmas was seized.
Riots broke out everywhere.
Thankfully Christmas was restored in 1660, when the monarchy was restored and Charles II took back the reign.
So when you are tucking into your turkey on Christmas day remember how thankful we need to be to our ancestors and the Royal Family for Christmas.
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