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Both European and American culture is created, in part, from agricultural roots. You do not travel and celebrate in spring; you need to plant your crops. You don’t do that in summer; the crops need to be tended. Fall is harvest time. That only leaves winter.

The Cows Are Slaughtered, The Corn Looks Good, Lets Drink Some Beer

In the 17th and 18th centuries, celebrations revolved around the winter solstice when the crops had been harvested, the cows had been slaughtered, and the wine and beer had fermented. After a long tough year, it was time to celebrate.

Pilgrims celebrated their first thanksgiving thanks in large part to their first successful corn harvest. Today, many family members venture from near and far to gather together —during one of the stormiest times of year!

Then, there is the Christmas holiday when longer family vacations are planned. How many times have you or relatives had airplane travel delay plans? It’s almost an annual tradition, too!

Many holidays end with a New Year celebration, as we toast to new beginnings, just as Julius Caesar celebrated Janus, the Roman god of beginnings. The night is fun, but careful you don’t get stranded by a cab in wintry weather on New Year’s Eve!

All kidding aside, it’s not only our agricultural past to consider, but also it’s just natural for us to come together in the darkest months to feast together and brighten the nights with festivals of lights. To do is a blessing. It’s just that darn travel weather!

How was your holiday travel this year—or, did you decide to stay put? Perhaps we should create some new travel traditions!