Complete Gardening
Christmas is a time of joy, togetherness, and unique customs that vary widely across the globe.
Each country has its own distinctive way of celebrating this festive season, reflecting its culture, history, and traditions.
Let’s explore twelve unique Christmas traditions from around the world that you might want to incorporate into your own celebrations this year.
1. KFC Christmas Dinner in Japan
In Japan, Christmas is celebrated with a unique twist: a hearty meal from KFC.
This tradition began in the 1970s and has become a beloved custom, with families often placing their orders weeks in advance to enjoy fried chicken on December 25th.
2. La Noche de los Rábanos in Mexico
Oaxaca, Mexico, hosts ‘The Night of the Radishes’ every December 23rd.
This event features radish carving competitions, where participants create elaborate scenes using this root vegetable.
It’s a colorful pre-Christmas celebration attracting artists and visitors alike.
3. The Gävle Goat in Sweden
Since 1966, the Swedish town of Gävle has erected a massive straw goat in its town square as part of Christmas celebrations.
This tradition is both festive and infamous, as vandals often attempt to burn it down before Christmas Day.
4. Simbang Gabi in the Philippines
In the Philippines, Simbang Gabi is a series of nine pre-dawn Masses leading up to Christmas.
It’s a cherished tradition where families attend Mass together, followed by enjoying local delicacies such as bibingka and puto bumbong.
5. Christmas Markets in Germany
Germany is famous for its enchanting Christmas markets, which are set up in towns and cities during the Advent season.
Visitors can enjoy traditional food, handmade crafts, and the festive spirit that fills these markets.
6. Cavalcade of Lights in Toronto, Canada
Toronto kicks off its holiday season with the Cavalcade of Lights, a dazzling display of lights at Nathan Phillips Square.
This event includes live performances, ice skating, and fireworks, making it a family-friendly celebration.
7. The Yule Lads in Iceland
In Iceland, the Yule Lads are 13 mischievous figures who visit children during the 13 nights leading up to Christmas.
Each night, a different Lad visits, leaving small gifts for well-behaved children or potatoes for those misbehaving.
8. Christmas Eve Sauna in Finland
In Finland, Christmas Eve is often spent relaxing in a sauna.
This tradition is a way to cleanse the body and mind before the festivities, offering families a moment of calm and togetherness during the bustling holiday season.
9. Giant Lantern Festival in the Philippines
Held annually in San Fernando, the Giant Lantern Festival is a spectacular event showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of the locals.
Enormous lanterns are displayed, each one intricately designed to light up the night in a mesmerizing dance of colors.
10. Mari Lwyd in Wales
Mari Lwyd is a unique Welsh tradition where a horse’s skull, decorated with ribbons, is paraded around the village.
The procession involves singing and challenging households in a playful battle of wits called ‘pwnco.’
11. Little Candles Day in Colombia
DÃa de las Velitas, or Little Candles Day, kicks off the Christmas season in Colombia.
Celebrated on December 7th, this involves lighting candles and lanterns to honor the Virgin Mary, creating a beautiful and serene spectacle.
12. Caga Tió in Catalonia, Spain
In Catalonia, Caga Tió, or the ‘pooping log,’ is a fun tradition where children ‘feed’ a log candy and treats in the days leading up to Christmas.
On Christmas Eve, they hit it with sticks while singing traditional songs, and the log ‘poops’ out presents.