Christmas is a time of joy and celebration, and the ways in which people around the globe commemorate this special holiday can vary dramatically.
From unique customs to festive foods, let’s explore how different countries celebrate Christmas and the traditions that make each celebration special.
Mexico: Las Posadas 🌮
In Mexico, the Christmas season is marked by Las Posadas, a nine-day celebration that starts on December 16th and ends on Christmas Eve. The festivities reenact Mary and Joseph’s journey to find shelter. Families participate in processions, singing carols, and visiting homes, where they are welcomed with food and drinks. Traditional foods like tamales and ponche (a warm fruit punch) are enjoyed throughout the festivities. On Christmas Eve, many families attend midnight Mass, known as La Misa de Gallo.
Italy: La Befana and Feast of the Seven Fishes 🍝
In Italy, Christmas is celebrated with a unique blend of traditions. One popular figure is La Befana, a kind witch who brings gifts to children on the night of January 5th, the eve of Epiphany. The Christmas Eve feast, known as La Vigilia, often includes the Feast of the Seven Fishes, where families prepare seven different seafood dishes. These traditions are steeped in Italian culture and emphasize family gatherings and festive meals.
Philippines: Simbang Gabi and parols 🎆
In the Philippines, Christmas celebrations begin in September and culminate with the Simbang Gabi, a series of nine early morning Masses held from December 16th to 24th. After Mass, it’s customary to enjoy traditional foods like puto bumbong (purple rice cakes) and bibingka (rice cake). The vibrant parol, a star-shaped lantern made from bamboo and paper, adorns homes and streets, symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem and the joy of the season.
Germany: Advent and Christmas markets 🎁
Germany is known for its rich Christmas traditions, including Advent, which begins four weeks before Christmas. Families often light candles on an Advent wreath and enjoy a special calendar filled with treats. German Christmas markets, or Weihnachtsmärkte, come alive with festive stalls selling handmade crafts, ornaments, and delicious foods like bratwurst and lebkuchen (gingerbread). The festive atmosphere, complete with twinkling lights and carolers, draws locals and visitors alike.
Japan: Christmas as a romantic holiday 🍰
In Japan, Christmas is not a public holiday but is celebrated in unique ways. It is often seen as a romantic occasion, with couples exchanging gifts and enjoying special meals together. One popular tradition is to eat Christmas cake, typically a light sponge cake topped with strawberries and whipped cream. The holiday is also marked by extravagant illuminations in major cities, creating a festive atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.
Sweden: St. Lucia’s Day and Julbord 🎶
In Sweden, Christmas festivities begin with St. Lucia’s Day on December 13th. Young girls dress as Lucia, wearing white gowns and wreaths of candles, to symbolize the bringing of light during the dark winter months. The holiday season is further celebrated with a traditional Julbord, a smorgasbord of festive dishes including herring, meatballs, and gingerbread cookies. The holiday spirit is embraced through music, decorations, and family gatherings.
Ethiopia: Genna and traditional foods 🍽️
In Ethiopia, Christmas is celebrated on January 7th, in accordance with the Orthodox Christian calendar. Known as Genna, the holiday is marked by church services and feasting. One traditional dish served during Genna is doro wat, a spicy chicken stew served with injera, a sourdough flatbread. People often dress in traditional white garments called netela, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Australia: Christmas in summer ☀️
In Australia, Christmas falls during the summer months, leading to unique traditions. Many Australians celebrate with outdoor barbecues, picnics, and beach gatherings. Traditional Christmas meals often include seafood, ham, and fresh salads. The festive spirit is highlighted by Christmas lights and decorations, with many homes adorned in holiday cheer, despite the warm weather.
India: Christmas with a local twist 🇮🇳
In India, Christmas is celebrated by Christians across the country, with unique local customs. Festivities include attending church services, decorating Christmas trees, and preparing festive meals that often blend local flavors. Traditional sweets like plum cake and coconut-based treats are popular during the celebrations. In some regions, families also hang colorful stars and decorations, adding to the festive atmosphere.
It's Christmas 365 