Christmas is a time for joy, celebration, and unique traditions that bring people together. While many countries share the holiday spirit, the way they celebrate it can vary widely. From quirky customs to festive food and iconic markets, let’s take a journey around the world to discover some of the most interesting Christmas traditions.
1. Sweden: The Feast of Saint Lucia
In Sweden, Christmas begins early with the Feast of Saint Lucia on December 13th. This event honors St. Lucia, a young woman who brought food and comfort to the poor. On this day, girls dressed in white gowns with red sashes wear crowns of candles, and processions are held in homes, schools, and churches. It’s a magical sight to behold and marks the start of the Christmas season. The traditional Swedish Christmas foods, such as Julbord (a smorgasbord of herring, ham, and meatballs), are served throughout the holidays. If you’re visiting Sweden in December, make sure to enjoy a cup of glögg, the Swedish mulled wine, which is often accompanied by gingerbread cookies. Learn more about Swedish Christmas traditions.
2. Germany: Christmas Markets and the Advent Calendar
Germany is the birthplace of some of the most iconic Christmas traditions, including the Christmas market. Cities like Nuremberg, Munich, and Cologne come alive with festive stalls offering handcrafted gifts, spiced wine, and warm pretzels. The Christkindlmarkt (Christmas Market) is a must-see for anyone traveling to Germany in December. Another tradition that originates in Germany is the Advent calendar. Families open a small door each day leading up to Christmas Eve, revealing chocolates or small gifts, making the countdown to Christmas a special occasion. If you’re planning to visit, don’t miss the opportunity to sample a Lebkuchen (Gingerbread) cookie while you explore the markets. Discover more about Germany’s Christmas Markets.
3. Mexico: Las Posadas and Traditional Food
In Mexico, Christmas celebrations start on December 16th with Las Posadas, a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter in Bethlehem. Groups of children and adults go door-to-door, singing carols and asking for posada (shelter). The festivities continue with a grand feast that includes traditional foods like tamales, bacalao (salted cod), and ponche, a hot fruit punch. Mexico’s Christmas traditions also feature piñatas, fireworks, and vibrant processions, all contributing to a holiday full of color and energy. If you’re in Mexico during Christmas, make sure to indulge in the sweets and savor the unique flavors of the season. Explore Mexico’s festive traditions.
4. Japan: KFC Christmas Feast
While Christmas in Japan isn’t celebrated in the religious sense, it has become a fun and quirky holiday. One of the most famous Christmas traditions in Japan is eating KFC. The tradition started in the 1970s with a clever marketing campaign by the fast-food giant. Now, many families order KFC meals to enjoy on Christmas Eve, and it has become synonymous with the holiday. Japanese Christmas also features illuminations in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, where streets and parks are adorned with spectacular light displays. If you’re traveling to Japan during the holidays, don’t forget to book your KFC feast in advance! Read about Japan’s unique Christmas.
5. Iceland: The 13 Yule Lads
Iceland has a very unique way of celebrating Christmas with the legend of the 13 Yule Lads. These mischievous characters, who are similar to Santa Claus, each have their own quirky traits and leave gifts for children during the 13 days leading up to Christmas. The tradition is accompanied by the Jólakötturinn (Yule Cat), a giant feline that is said to eat anyone who hasn’t received new clothes for Christmas. The Icelandic Christmas feast is centered around hangikjöt (smoked lamb), and families often enjoy rúllupylsa (rolled lamb) alongside other holiday treats like laufabrauð, a delicate fried bread. Learn about Icelandic Christmas customs.
6. Philippines: Simbang Gabi and Giant Lanterns
In the Philippines, Christmas celebrations begin with Simbang Gabi, a series of nine early morning masses leading up to Christmas Eve. This tradition is steeped in history and is followed by festive family gatherings. A highlight of Christmas in the Philippines is the Parol, a star-shaped lantern made from bamboo and paper, symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem. Large, colorful lanterns are displayed in public spaces, and some towns even hold lantern festivals. The festive food in the Philippines includes lechon (roast pig), bibingka (rice cake), and puto bumbong (purple rice cakes), making it a food lover’s dream. Find out more about Christmas in the Philippines.
7. Finland: Santa Claus Village
Finland claims to be the home of Santa Claus, and no Christmas is complete without a visit to the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, located in the Arctic Circle. Here, visitors can meet Santa, cross the Arctic Circle, and experience a winter wonderland. Finnish Christmas traditions also include a peaceful Christmas Eve dinner with dishes like karjalanpaisti (Karelian stew) and rosolli (a beetroot salad). The Finnish sauna is also an essential part of their holiday relaxation. Visit Finland for a magical Christmas.
Conclusion
From the Swedish candlelit processions to the Japanese KFC feasts, Christmas traditions around the world are as diverse as the countries themselves. Whether it’s the festive markets of Germany or the Yule Lads of Iceland, each culture brings something unique to the holiday season. No matter where you are in the world, Christmas is a time for joy, family, and special memories.
For more unique destinations and hidden gems to explore during the holiday season, be sure to check out our blog on the best travel destinations to add to your bucket list here.
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