Amazing Christmas traditions from around the world

Hiding Brooms in Norway

There is a unique tradition of hiding brooms and mops in Norway during Christmas, as it is believed that witches and evil spirits roam the night sky on this day, and they might steal brooms to use as transportation or joyous rides during Christmas. To prevent this, Norwegians hide their brooms in closets or cupboards, ensuring a peaceful night for the family. This quirky tradition adds a touch of magic to their Christmas celebrations.

Christmas Spider in Ukraine

The Christmas spider, or Pavuchky, is a beloved Ukrainian Christmas tradition. According to the legend, a poor widow couldn't afford to decorate her Christmas tree, but a spider spun a beautiful web on it overnight, transforming it into a sparkling wonder. Since then, Ukrainians have decorated their trees with spider-shaped ornaments and artificial webs, believing it brings good luck and prosperity. This heartwarming tale reminds us that even the smallest creatures can bring joy and magic to the holiday season. Other countries like Poland and Germany too consider this tradition and believe that if they find any spider or spider web in a Christmas tree, then they consider it as good luck for them and their families.

Burning of Giant Yule Goat, Sweden

It’s strange, but yes, this tradition of burning the giant yule goat made up of straw is followed in Sweden. According to tradition, every year, a large straw goat is erected in the town of Gavle, and the community watches with anticipation to see if it will survive the holiday season. Unfortunately, the goat has a history of being set ablaze by vandals, making it a yearly test of resilience and a symbol of both tradition and mischief.

Christmas Chicken in Japan

Japan celebrates Christmas in a very unique way by eating KFC for Christmas dinner. Also, there is no traditional holiday; Japanese people celebrate with enthusiasm, particularly for its romantic and commercial aspects. This quirky tradition began in the 1970s as a marketing campaign by Kentucky Fried Chicken, promoting "Kentucky for Christmas." Today, families pre-order their Christmas chicken weeks in advance, making it a deliciously unconventional way to celebrate the season. Christmas Eve is considered a special day for couples, akin to Valentine's Day with romantic dinners and gift exchanges.  The holiday season is also marked by beautiful illuminations, Christmas markets, and a general festive atmosphere.

Witch brings gifts to Italy

Italy celebrates Christmas with a unique twist! Instead of Santa Claus, children eagerly await the arrival of La Befana, a kind witch who delivers gifts on Epiphany Eve (January 5th). This beloved figure, often depicted as an old woman riding a broomstick, fills children's stockings with sweets and toys for good behaviour, and coal for naughty ones. La Befana's legend adds a magical touch to Italian Christmas traditions, making it a memorable experience for young and old alike.

Lighting a Pudding in the UK

In the United Kingdom, Christmas is incomplete without this tradition of lighting the Christmas pudding. After steaming the pudding, brandy is poured over it and set alight, creating a fiery spectacle that symbolizes Christ's passion. This tradition adds a touch of excitement and wonder to the Christmas meal, making it a memorable experience for families and friends.

Giving Poinsettias in Mexico

What a beautiful tradition of giving poinsettias, known as "Nochebuena" in Mexico. Poinsettia is a red flower that blooms in winter. According to a Mexican tale, a girl arrived at a Christmas Eve service with nothing but a bouquet of weeds to offer the newborn Jesus. When she kneeled to plant the weeds near the nativity, the bouquet erupted into vibrant crimson flowers. Since then, the flowers, whose leaves are claimed to be fashioned like the Bethlehem star, have been dubbed Flores de Noche Buena, or Flowers of the Holy Night, and have become synonymous with Christmas. Mexicans often decorate their homes and churches with these festive plants, creating a joyful atmosphere. The tradition of giving poinsettias as gifts during Christmas has become a cherished custom, spreading the spirit of warmth and love throughout the season.

The Giant Lantern Festival in the Philippines

Christmas in San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines, is marked by the Giant Lantern Festival (Ligligan Parul). Each December, barangays (villages) compete to create the most spectacular giant lantern, illuminated with thousands of lights and synchronized to music. These elaborate creations, often featuring religious or cultural themes, light up the night sky, earning San Fernando the title of "Christmas Capital of the Philippines."

Christmas traditions around the world showcase the rich diversity of human culture and creativity. Whether quirky, spiritual, or festive, each tradition adds its magic to the season, making Christmas a truly global celebration. Christmas is almost on the door, and we are extremely excited to witness the grand festival. Enjoy this festival and spread happiness and kindness.