Holidays

Everyone loves a good holiday, no matter whether you're commemorating a special occasion or just looking for a day out of the office. Read about important holidays in these articles.

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Christmas is celebrated by hundreds of millions of people around the world each year. But what do presents, three wise men and Jesus have to do with each other anyway?

By Sarah Dowdey

Underappreciated and overworked elves put in a pretty astounding amount of labor during the holidays. Then there are the other duties they must fulfill, like tending to diva reindeer like Rudolph. So do elves thrive on stress, and do they ever get disgruntled?

By John Fuller

Imagine having to deliver toys (and coal) to children all over the world - in just one night. How does the big guy do it?

By John Fuller

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He's been called a diva, a hero and a misfit. He's Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer. And his ruby-red honker has long been celebrated for guiding Santa and his sleigh through the night. But how does he do it?

By John Fuller

Today, many associate the holiday less with pilgrims and American Indians and more with football and turkey. What's the real story of Thanksgivig Day?

By Allison Klein

Wonderful Weirdos Day was created by citizens of Austin, Texas to celebrate personality quirks on September 9. Read more about Wonderful Weirdos Day.

By John Fuller

Americans celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence every year on July 4 with picnics and fireworks. Learn the story behind Independence Day in the United States and how its traditions came about.

By Marshall Brain

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'Tis the season to enjoy your favorite Christmas carols. Watch a new generation of children explore the Christmas songs you remember like Jingle Bells and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

Test your Christmas trivia knowledge in the areas of songs, movies, traditions and more. Uncover amazing facts as you test your Christmas trivia knowledge.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

No need to spend big when you can make creative kids' Halloween costumes with just a few supplies. Some of these costumes can be made with materials that you may already have in your home. Use our no-sew steps for fun, unique kid costumes.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

Telling a scary story is a great way to share in the fun of being scared silly. Ignite your kids' imaginations with these Halloween stories. Discover dozens of old and new favorites in this article.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

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Yo-yos can be traced back at least 2,500 years -- it's a toy with phenomenal staying power. On June 6, yo-yo fans everywhere can "walk the dog" to commemorate the birthday of Donald Duncan, credited with making yo-yos popular in the United States.

By Jonathan Strickland

Get creative with your next kids' Halloween party with our many party ideas. Your guests will love the results. Check out this article for spooky themes, goodie bag ideas, and awesome homemade invitations.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

Forget candy corn. Nothing says fall quite like freshly roasted pumpkin seeds. They're super simple to make and you can give them a sweet or salty kick.

By HowStuffWorks.com Contributors

Whether it's for Halloween festivities or everyday fun, kids love scary stories. These stories are a great way to introduce kids to the fun of being scared. Browse this collection of read-aloud scary stories for children.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

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Wizards, pirates, ghosts -- they all come alive in the Halloween party games in this article. Check out instructions and tips for dozens of fun, kid-friendly games that will your Halloween party a blast.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

Making your own Halloween decorations can be fun and simple. Halloween decorations can also be made without spending a small fortune on supplies. Get step-by-step directions for dozens of festive and scary Halloween items.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

October is the perfect time to brush up on those creepy tale-telling skills. Here are a few to get you started, including "Sweet Mary" and the story of the Flying Dutchman.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

Poinsettia blooms in early winter and is popular around Christmas with its red, white or pink flowers. But it's demanding and needs several hours of daily darkness to rebloom.

By Jesslyn Shields

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No Pants Day is a little-known holiday that celebrates not taking oneself seriously. Learn how to celebrate No Pants Day and explore No Pants Day events.

By Jonathan Strickland

Every April 22, millions of people around the world gather to celebrate Earth Day. Who started Earth Day and when?

By Stephanie Watson

The Christmas songs you've been hearing your entire life came from medieval chants, church sermons, prayers and meditations. Get the lyrics, sheet music and histories of your favorite Christmas melodies.

By Gail Cohen & Gilbert DeBenedetti

Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Crachit, Tiny Tim -- everyone knows these names. Charles Dickens created an unforgettable world in 'A Christmas Carol.' Reacquaint yourself with one of the greatest Christmas stories ever written.

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Whether your taste runs spooky or silly, if you're willing to get your hands dirty, a pumpkin can be the perfect canvas to express your Halloween style.

By Tracy V. Wilson

Are you bored with the commercialism of the Christmas holidays? Do you find tinsel distracting? Is there a large aluminum pole collecting dust in your crawlspace? If you answered yes to all of the above then Festivus is for you!

By Matt Hunt