Traditionally Speaking

Scotland has no shortage of culinary specialities, and Christmas food is no different. In this episode, Tom and Joe discuss two festive delicacies which have found popularity in the modern Scottish Christmas - the ancient bannock cake, and the more recent Ecclefechan tart.  But what are the stories which lie behind these distinctive yuletide treats, and why have they been enjoying a resurgence in popularity?

When Clement Clark Moore first published his poem "A Visit from St Nicholas" in 1823, little could he have imagined its amazing cultural impact - or the fact that readers are still enjoying his tale of Santa Claus two centuries later.  In this episode, Tom and Joe discuss the continuing influence of this festive poetic masterpiece on both sides of the Atlantic, and Joe also explores how Clement Moore's work gave him the idea for his own American Fiction Award-winning book, "The Christmas Eve Journey", which depicts that wonderful yuletide encounter from Santa's point of view.

The festive season just wouldn't be the same without them.  Lights on our homes, lights on our trees, lights in our gardens - always brightening up those dark December evenings. But how did Christmas lights become an annual tradition? Join Tom and Joe as they explore the origins of this quintessential Yuletide staple, then take a look at the different ways that Christmas lights are used to celebrate the holidays on both sides of the Atlantic.

The Advent Calendar is an essential item for anyone looking to enjoy the countdown to Christmas. But how did this tradition come about, and how is it celebrated between one country and another? Get ready to discover some fascinating festive facts with Tom and Joe.

The baking and decorating of gingerbread houses has become an established festive tradition both in Scotland and in America. But where do their origins come from? The answer may be more ancient than you think! And what is your favourite way to decorate your own gingerbread house? Find out more about these distinctive festive treats in the latest discussion with Tom and Joe.

Christingles are a symbolic expression of the Christmas story which are popular throughout Europe but have yet to make much of an impact in North America. How did these brightly-lit Nativity-themed decorations become such a well-loved tradition, and how did they end up raising millions of pounds for charitable causes?  

Who doesn't love Christmas cookies? Yet this traditional treat has a long history, and holds a few surprises you might never have heard about. What is it about the Christmas cookie that has made it such a perennial favorite all across the world?

Christmas crackers are a famous mainstay of British Christmas dinners, but they are largely unheard of in the USA. What made the cracker such a popular fixture in the UK, and why have they still to catch on in most of North America?

Tom Christie and Santa Joe Moore welcome you to "Traditionally Speaking", their new podcast where they will be discussing all things Christmas on both sides of the Atlantic. Join them as they introduce the main themes of the podcast and give a taste of topics to come.