Why do we kiss under mistletoe? - Carlos Reif
961,020 Views
10,780 Questions Answered
TEDEd Animation
Let’s Begin…
The sight of mistletoe may either send you scurrying or, if you have your eye on someone, awaiting an opportunity beneath its snow-white berries. But how did the festive tradition of kissing under mistletoe come about? Carlos Reif explains how this long-lived custom intertwines the mythology and biology of this intriguing plant.
Mistletoes are one good example of a pagan tradition that survived throughout time. Can you think of any other common tradition with the similar ancient roots?
Sign in to answer questionAbout TED-Ed Animations
TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »
Meet The Creators
- Educator Carlos Reif
- Director Bálint Gelley
- Script Editor Emma Bryce
- Animator Bálint Gelley, Iván Tamás
- Producer Bella Szederkényi
- Storyboard Artist Daniel Gray
- Designer Borbála Tompa
- Character Designer Borbála Tompa
- Sound Designer Zoltán Vadon
- Composer Gergely Buttinger
- Narrator Addison Anderson
