Christmas is a holiday celebrated by millions of people from all corners of the world each year. While some countries may have similarities in their Christmas celebration, there are various traditions unique to each culture that make the holiday season that more special. In this article, we will explore different cultural traditions for Christmas around the world.
United States of America
In America, Christmas is a major holiday celebrated on the 25th of December every year. One of the most popular traditions is the decoration of Christmas Trees. Additionally, families gather together to sing Christmas Carols, which is an excellent way of bonding. During Christmas Day, there is usually a grand feast where turkey, ham, vegetables, and other foods are served.
Mexico
In Mexico, Christmas is celebrated from the 12th of December up to January 6th. The celebration starts with ‘Posada’ reenactments, which symbolize Mary and Joseph’s search for the inn. There are lots of fireworks and piñatas that are broken to reveal sweets and other goodies. There is also a unique tradition where the children perform the ‘Pastorela,’ a play where they dress up as angels, shepherds, and the devil.
Germany
German Christmas celebrations begin with the start of Advent, which is four Sundays before Christmas. One of the most popular traditions is the ‘Adventskranz,’ an Advent wreath with four candles; each candle is lit on each Sunday of Advent. Germans celebrate on Christmas Eve, and it’s not uncommon for families to exchange Christmas gifts. Children believe that on Christmas Eve, Father Christmas comes and brings them presents if they have been good.
Italy
In Italy, Christmas is an essential family holiday, and most businesses close from the 24th of December to 26th of December. Families gather to share a lovely dinner on Christmas Eve, and it’s common to have ‘La Vigilia,’ which involves serving fish as the main course. The children eagerly await the arrival of ‘Babbo Natale,’ their version of Father Christmas, who brings them gifts which are left for them under the tree.
Japan
In Japan, Christmas is not an official holiday, but it’s celebrated by exchanging gifts, illuminations, and displaying Christmas trees. Fried chicken, specifically from KFC, has become a popular Christmas meal in Japan after a successful marketing campaign in 1974 by KFC!
In conclusion, Christmas is a holiday celebrated in various traditions worldwide, and they all have their unique way of making the holiday special. From Mexico’s ‘Posada’ reenactments to Germany’s ‘Adventskranz,’ each tradition adds to the global celebration that is Christmas.
