In Lancaster County, the Amish are known — and loved — for their family values, hard work, and unique traditions.
The Amish pass down these cherished traditions from family to family, each holiday and celebration remaining still characteristically Amish but also becoming to unique to each family.
One of those unique Amish traditions is Second Christmas!
What is Second Christmas?
The Amish celebrate Second Christmas on December 26th, the day after their first day of Christmas celebration when most people gather. The Amish set aside this second day to continue the Christmas celebrations: gift-giving, visiting families, and enjoying delicious, homemade food.
Because most Amish families are large, they have many family reunions and Christmas gatherings to attend. This additional day of celebration gives the Amish another chance to go to the extended family gatherings while also carving out time for their immediate family celebrations.
How do the Amish celebrate Second Christmas?
The Amish celebrate the second day of Christmas similar to how they celebrate the first day: gathering with family and friends to enjoy food and each other’s company.
Some Amish celebrate differently than others depending on where the Amish live and how strict their community’s guidelines are. Sometimes, the Amish use December 25th as a day to pray and read the Bible then they reserve Second Christmas for family and Christmas festivities.
Second Christmas started years ago, so long past that many Amish don’t even know how it started. But throughout the years, this second day of celebration has become a cherished day for the Amish.
“I don’t know why it’s Second Christmas or where it started,” said Lavina, one of Peaceful Valley Furniture’s Amish employees. “But it’s so that you have another day to get together with your in-laws family…often we’re with friends at some point on that day too.”
In a nutshell, the Amish value their families and close-knit community of friends.
Second Christmas is simply another day to celebrate Jesus’ birth and gather with their loved ones.
Some Information gathered from The Amish Quilt.
Great food
Yes, the Amish sure know how to make delicious dishes. Do you have a favorite?