As society grows and years pass, the laws from the past can sometimes be questionable, to say the least. So, with Christmas just around the corner, we thought it’s the perfect time to have a look at some of the most bizarre festive myths and laws in the UK.
Is it illegal to put coins in the Christmas pudding?
The tradition of hiding a coin in your Christmas pudding is a tradition that has lasted for more than 500 years, and if you are the one to find the coin it is said to bring you good luck for the new year.
Putting coins in the Christmas pudding is not illegal, but over the years for health and safety reasons the concern of the coins inside puddings has been debated and ultimately has created a myth about it being illegal.
In the UK, the tradition continues and if you are careful when tucking into your Christmas pudding this year, you might find a coin to bring you good fortune in 2022.
Is eating mince pies on Christmas day illegal?
Although nowadays this is just a myth, it does have some backstory behind it. Back in the 17th century, Oliver Cromwell supposedly banned mince pies and other Christmas treats to tackle gluttony.
The ban clearly didn’t survive for long and the act of eating mince pies is now deliciously and totally legal.
Is it illegal for Pawnbrokers to open on Christmas Day?
Back in the day, the Pawnbrokers Act 1787 prohibited pawnbrokers from opening their shops on Christmas Day. So, people that wanted to pawn their Christmas Day gifts couldn’t until the 26th of December.
Is it illegal to eat more than three courses of Christmas dinner at a hotel or restaurant?
Of course not! But in 1836 under a William IV law, it was illegal to eat more than three courses of Christmas dinner at a restaurant or hotel.
Comment on our social media and let us know if you have heard of any other funny laws.
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