Mention roasting chestnuts, a savory smoked ham, or the cool peppermint finish of a hand-pulled candy cane, and you're bound to evoke Christmas memories any time of the year. But how did these iconic foods - so vital to holiday menus, and so ingrained with the culture of the holiday - become associated with Christmas in the first place? Browse these images of traditional Christmas foods, and get a taste of the fascinating history behind traditional Christmas food customs.
Plus, learn where to buy each of the featured Christmas foods online, whether you want to begin a new family tradition, or simply free up time to enjoy the season with your loved ones.