The earliest recorded use of the phrase Merry Christmas dates back to the 16th century. In 1534, an English Catholic bishop, John Fisher, wrote a letter to Thomas Cromwell wishing him a “mery ...

I really mean that, for everyone reading this. My season’s greeting isn’t a political statement, nor — in keeping with the spirit of the season — should it be. And yet … too many folks from the ...

Merry Christmas 2025 Wishes: Christmas is a season of warmth, love, and gratitude. As homes light up, hearts open to share kindness, blessings, and joy. Whether you are sending heartfelt Christmas ...

It's been a festive staple in British homes since Christmas 1971 - yet many remain oblivious to what John Lennon whispers at the beginning of his iconic Christmas song. Happy Xmas (War Is Over) was ...

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or ...

Singer Chris Rea, widely known for the festive hit Driving Home for Christmas, has died aged 74, his family confirmed today. A somewhat reluctant popstar, the Middlesbrough native was shy of the ...

When it comes to highlighting shocking customer care in Ireland and the myriad ways readers have been let down, this page is rarely found wanting. But with it being the season of goodwill and all, we ...

This will be the third year I've bought my darling husband and my dearest children absolutely nothing for Christmas. Not a single toy, item of clothing or stocking filler. Nada. When I tell people ...

How the longest venomous King Cobra in history became a casualty of the Second World War Quote of the day by Toni Morrison, "Could you really love somebody who was absolutely nobody without you? You ...

Every December, "Happy Holidays" floods conversations and advertisements. It aims to be a neutral, inclusive greeting, but instead it dilutes cultural identity, erases meaningful distinctions and ...

Every year at this time, many conservatives here in the United States declare that there is a "war on Christmas" if people greet others with any phrase other than "Merry Christmas." Besides the ...

Prince William and Princess Kate are ringing in the holidays with a time-honored tradition. The royal couple released their annual Christmas card Thursday, posing alongside their three children in a ...