It is a tradition to exchange gifts on Christmas in the United States.
The tradition of wrapping gifts in paper started as far back as 105a.d. in China. Soon the tradition spread to Egypt and all throughout Europe. The trend hit America in the 20th century by Hallmark.
Giving gifts symbolizes the kings in the Bible giving the gifts to Jesus when they visisted Him. Today, gifts are given more out of tradition than any symbolization, though.
It is appropriate to give a small gift for this blessed event. The tradition of giving gifts at a christening has been around for a long time. I would suggest maybe a small bible or some rosary beads.
Good children get gifts and naughty one a chunk of coal.
On Christmas eve or Christmas Day. Whatever is your families tradition
Nicholas of Myra would toss his gifts through an open window or down a chimney and would not personally enter a house.
Dec 24, after the Christmas dinner.
There is no tradition of gift giving during Passover.
This tradition is said to be based on the generousity and kindness of the three kings, or three wise men, who visited the Christ child and brought him valuable gifts. Afterward, they bravely defied King Herod and did not return to him to let him know the location of the Holy Family.
In "The Gift of the Magi," one tradition mentioned is exchanging gifts during Christmas. Jim and Della, the main characters, go to great lengths to buy each other gifts as a token of their love, despite their financial limitations.
Gifts are given mainly to children, but must always include a book and a heritage symbol. The book is to emphasize the African value and tradition of learning stressed since ancient Egypt, and the heritage symbol to reaffirm and reinforce the African commitment to tradition and history.