History: Christmas Food Through the Ages

A fascinating look at Christmas food through the ages, from medieval feasting through Victorian splendour to the present day, with a brief stop when Cromwell tried to ban Christmas.  On the way we'll look at how to make gingerbread, how the Turkey reached England (while feeling very glad that it's less ferocious than a wild boar), what went into a Real Mince Pie, and why crackers were originally food, plus some hints on how to keep children quiet in church. We will also look at why some traditional foods and customs are probably best left in the past, and even discuss ideas on how to persuade the Sun to rise again. You’ll have to join the course to find out what that means, but here’s a hint: you do NOT want to be the one who finds the sixpence in the Christmas pudding! You’ll leave with a greater appreciation of our Christmas traditions, a better understanding of some carols, and may even want to start a new tradition (or revive an old one) with your own family and friends. There will be some recipes available after the session, added to Canvas, that you can download and try in your own time.