Christmas Food and Feasting

This engaging cultural history traces the evolution of Christmas feasting from its pagan roots to contemporary celebrations, revealing how our holiday tables became repositories of tradition, nostalgia, and symbolism. Madeline Shanahan expertly guides readers through centuries of culinary evolution, connecting medieval traditions, Victorian romanticism, and modern commercial influences to the foods we consider essential today. The book demonstrates how Christmas menus have consistently served as cultural crossroads where ritual, innovation, and indulgence intersect.

What sets this exploration apart is its global perspective on local traditions, examining how different cultures have shaped and been shaped by their festive foods. Readers who appreciate culinary history, anthropology, or simply want to understand the deeper meanings behind their holiday meals will find this both enlightening and conversation-starting. By connecting ancient rituals to modern dining habits, this book gives you a new appreciation for every mince pie and Christmas pudding you encounter.