Hi everyone!

So I absolutely have loved reading all the lists of cookies that everyone is going to be whipping up between now and Christmas. Coming from a Jewish household, however, I don't have this particular tradition in my family.
I was wondering - where does the tradition of making so many varieties of intricate cookies come from?? Is it for cookie exchanges? Large family gatherings? Or just the best excuse ever for baking marathons?

Let me in on the cultural secrets! :)