<P> South Korea's population are 30% Christian and Christmas is a Public Holiday . According to the Washington Post, "Koreans prefer cash Christmas gifts over more creative presents ." </P> <P> Singapore widely celebrates Christmas which is a Public Holiday in this country . For six weeks, mid-November to early January, the 2.2 - kilometre (1.4 mi) stretch of Orchard Road glitters with lights from decorated trees and building facades of malls and hotels . </P> <P> A selection of goodwill greetings are often used around the world to address strangers, family, colleagues or friends during the season . Some greetings are more prevalent than others, depending on culture and location . Traditionally, the predominant greetings of the season have been "Merry Christmas", "Happy Christmas", and "Happy New Year". In the mid-to - late 20th century in the United States, more generic greetings such as "Happy Holidays" and "Season's Greetings" began to rise in cultural prominence, and this would later spread to other Western countries including Canada, Australia and to a lesser extent some European countries . A 2012 poll by Rasmussen Reports indicated that 68% of Americans prefer the use of "Merry Christmas", while 23% preferred "Happy Holidays". A similarly - timed Canadian poll conducted by Ipsos - Reid indicated that 72% of Canadians preferred "Merry Christmas". </P> <P> The greetings and farewells "Merry Christmas" and "Happy Christmas" are traditionally used in English - speaking countries, starting a few weeks before Christmas (December 25) each year . </P>

When was the term happy holidays first used