h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Why do we get kissed if we stand under the mistletoe?

Since ancient times, the mistletoe has been one of the
most magical, mysterious and sacred plants of European folklore.

The ancient Druids considered the mistletoe to be a sacred
plant and believed it had miraculous powers which could cure
illnesses, serve as an antidote against poisons, ensure fertility
and protect against the ill effects of witchcraft. It was also
believed that the mistletoe was an aphrodisiac or a sexual symbol.

From these strange beliefs has come the modern-day custom of
hanging a ball of mistletoe from the ceiling and exchanging kisses
under it as a sign of friendship and goodwill.

The tradition of smooching under the mistletoe descends from the
customs of several different cultures. For instance, exchanging
kisses under the mistletoe was a tradition of Greek festivals and
marital ceremonies. If a couple in love exchanges a kiss under the
mistletoe, it is interpreted as a promise to marry, as well as a
prediction
of happiness and long life.

The Anglo-Saxons associated the powers of the mistletoe to the
legend of Freya, the goddess of love, beauty and fertility. According
to
the legend, a man had to kiss any young girl who, without realizing it,
found herself accidentally under a sprig of mistletoe hanging from the
ceiling. Guys would pluck a berry when they smooched the girls and
when the last berry was gone, there would be no more kissing!

In France, the custom linked to the mistletoe was reserved for New
Year's Day:
"Au gui l'An neuf"--Mistletoe for the New Year.

Today, kisses can be exchanged under the mistletoe any time
during the holiday season.