Why Christmas can never be cancelled

Boozing away the winter blues is a long-held right. Despite epidemiologist's advice against mass indoor gatherings, especially between multi-generational people, many are still determined to do just that this Christmas. What is it about the celebration that is so important for people, that not even the coronavirus pandemic can be a deterrent against it? Tim Smith-Laing gives his view for The Economist's 1843 magazine, and spares a thought for governments of the world: "you mess with Christmas at your own peril."