Festival

What the Ramadan fast actually requires, who is exempt from it, the disputed history of its origin, and why Ramadan Mubarak is the safer greeting.

Why Mother's Day lands on a different date in different countries, how the UK's Mothering Sunday split from the US holiday, and a country-by-country list.

What Pohela Boishakh marks, why Bangladesh keeps April 14, the fairs, processions and Haalkhata that fill the day, and a set of new year wishes to send.

What a Christmas Wonderland event puts on for families, with a closer look at two of them: Hyde Park in London and the Sydney Showground in Australia.

Christmas gift ideas sorted by who you are shopping for, from a jewelry box and agate coasters to coffee mug mixers and an ombre tote bag.

Where the Christmas card came from in 1843, and what to write in one now: separate pointers for close family and for clients, plus when to mail them.

A short collection of ready-to-use Christmas card messages, the kinds of wishes to choose from, and how to personalize a greeting for family and friends.

Decorate a tree in three passes: lights first, then garland, then ornaments, with the four common types of tree light and how to space each layer.