Happy Advent from OpenLearn! Click on the doors of our advent calendar to reveal a free learning surprise.

This article explores how we can embrace sustainability this Christmas with bioplastics for gifts, decorations, and wrapping.

In the lead-up to the festive season, Dr Becca Whitehead explores what astronomical objects the Christmas Star could have been.

Every year on 13 December, Sweden celebrates St Lucia’s Day – a festive tradition that marks the start of the Christmas season.

During the festive period, our food choices may change from what we usually eat. But what does this do to our gut microbiota? Let’s explore the impact of festive feasting on the gut and how what we eat can affect the microbial populations in our guts.

We take a look at why feasting, giving gifts and spreading cheer goes hand in hand with the festive season. 

Sherry is too good to be left gathering dust while waiting for Christmas to come. This article and associated video explains the chemistry behind this tipple.

What will be Christmas Number One this year? Explore the musical components that make up a great festive chart-topper here...

What's the secret to Christmas crackers? Dr James Bruce from The Open University's Chemistry Department explains why they go bang in this article.

Beware: Britain's communication regulator warns that your twinkling festive lights might be blocking your wifi signal. Really? Andrew Smith explains why it shouldn't keep you awake worrying...

Victoria spends Christmas 1837 with a "merry" Lord Melbourne.

For its December 25th, 1840 edition, the Morning Chronicle polled workhouse managers to discover what the poor of London could expect for their Christmas Day. The following is an extract of their report.

In 1835, Charles Darwin had what he hoped would be his last Christmas before returning to Britiain.

In this extract from Roundabout Papers, William Makepeace Thackeray describes a festive entertainment which takes liberties with history. Not that Thackeray is above taking a few liberties of his own...

Senior lecturer in analytical science Claire Turner asks: Can chocolate ever be good for us?

The turkey is a fascinating bird - and demands more respect than a bit of stuffing and a spot of cranberry. Ricki Lewis explains more