Christmas traditions vary widely, offering a colorful glimpse into cultural identities worldwide. From festive meals to superstitions, each custom brings its own unique flavor to the season. Here are eight captivating ways Christmas is celebrated around the globe.
By John Adams
Celebrating with Food and Feasts
In Ethiopia, Christmas, or “Genna,” takes place on January 7, marked by church services and feasts following a 43-day fast. Meanwhile, in South Africa, families gather for beachside picnics or barbecues on December 26, with grilled meats being a highlight. Japan, however, celebrates with fried chicken from KFC, a tradition born from a 1974 advertisement campaign that remains wildly popular. In Bulgaria, Christmas Eve meals are vegetarian, featuring an odd number of dishes like stuffed peppers and cabbage rolls, a nod to spiritual and cultural customs.
Trees, Ornaments, and Hidden Surprises
Christmas decorations also tell unique stories. In Liberia, oil palms are adorned with bells in place of traditional fir trees. The United States has a quirky tradition of hiding a pickle-shaped ornament on the Christmas tree, with a prize for the lucky finder. In Norway, broomsticks and mops are hidden on Christmas Eve due to a superstition about witches returning that night. These creative and symbolic practices make decorating a truly personalized part of the season.
Fortune, Luck, and Letters
In Spain, Christmas excitement peaks on December 22 with the drawing of the “El Gordo” lottery, a long-standing tradition that brings hope and joy to many. In the Czech Republic, an apple sliced crosswise after the Christmas meal is said to predict fortune—stars in the core signal health and happiness, while crosses foretell misfortune. In Canada, children send letters to Santa Claus at his official North Pole address, receiving thoughtful replies in more than 30 languages, even Braille. These customs showcase how Christmas blends playfulness with meaningful connections.
Unique Celebrations Across Continents
In addition to traditional meals and gifts, some countries emphasize activities tied to deeper beliefs. Ethiopian church services unite communities for hours of prayer and song. In Liberia, fireworks light up the night as people come together to celebrate. In Japan, families make reservations weeks ahead to ensure they can participate in the “Kentucky Christmas” feast. Even small, quirky traditions like hiding mops in Norway or slicing apples in the Czech Republic emphasize how the holiday embraces both global unity and local flair.
Christmas traditions around the world reflect a fascinating blend of cultural identity, creativity, and shared joy. Whether it’s through feasts, decorations, or rituals, each custom brings its own charm to the season while celebrating the universal spirit of togetherness. These diverse practices remind us that the essence of Christmas transcends borders, embracing unity in its many forms.
Based on information from www.gala.de and own research.