Contrary to popular belief, the Bible doesn't actually mention a
specific date for Jesus' birth. In fact, most historians believe
he was probably born in the spring, hence the Bible's
description of shepherds herding animals. But in the 4th
century, when the Catholic Church decided to recognize Jesus'
birth as an official holiday, Pope Julius I chose December 25
for the Feast of the Nativity. That the date happened to
coincide with the pagan festival known as Saturnalia must have
been pure coincidence. Next War on Christmas