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Why do we kiss under mistletoe? - Carlos Reif

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TEDEd Animation

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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.

The term “parasite” has a negative connotation. Do you think that connotation applies to the mistletoes and can you think of other examples where prejudice arises from poorly understood situations?

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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

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