We all know that Christmas is a time for family, friends, and festivities. It is celebrated worldwide, but the way it is celebrated differs from country to country. No matter where you are in the world, there are certain Christmas traditions that have been passed down through generations. In this blog post, we are going to explore the most interesting and unique Christmas traditions from around the world. From Welsh to Japanese, Austrian to Filipino, we will be diving into all the different ways cultures celebrate this special holiday.
Welsh Traditions
In Wales, the Christmas season kicks off on December 1st with the lighting of the first candle on the Advent wreath. The most interesting tradition in Welsh culture is the Mari Lwyd, where a group of people will carry a horse’s skull (made from wood) door-to-door. They will then challenge the people inside the house to a battle of wits in rhyme before being invited in for food and drinks. Another interesting tradition is the ‘Hunting of the Wren’, where a bird is hunted and buried with great respect.
Japanese Traditions
Christmas is not a traditional holiday in Japan, but it is celebrated with enthusiasm. The most exciting tradition in Japan is the widespread tradition of KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken) on Christmas Day. It is believed that eating KFC is a way of celebrating, and this tradition has been carried on since the 1970s. Additionally, it is a popular time to visit Tokyo Disneyland, and couples take part in romantic dinners and hotel stays.
Australian Traditions
Christmas day in Australia often means a trip to the beach. As it falls in the middle of summer in Australia, Christmas day barbecues and picnics are popular across the country. People spend the day sunbathing, swimming, and playing cricket on the beach.
Phillipine Traditions
The Philippines has one of the longest and most festive Christmas seasons in the world. Decorations such as parols (lanterns made of paper or bamboo) and belen (nativity scene) are put up as early as September. On December 16th, a nine-day novena mass called the Misa de Gallo is celebrated very early in the morning before dawn. On Christmas Eve, people gather for a midnight feast called Noche Buena, where traditional Filipino foods such as lechon (roast pig) and bibingka (rice cake) are served.
Austrian Traditions
One of the most important aspects of Austrian Christmas traditions is the decorating of the house. The most characteristic decorations are the ‘Christkindlmarkt’ (Christmas market), the ‘Krippen’ (nativity scene), and the Advent wreath. On December 6th, St. Nicholas visits the children and brings them gifts. The most interesting tradition in Austria is Krampus, a demonic figure who accompanies St. Nicholas and punishes children who have been bad.
South American Traditions
In South America, Christmas is celebrated with a blend of European, African, and native customs. In Peru, one of the biggest traditions is the reenactment of the shepherds' journey to Bethlehem, known as the ‘Cholo Carnival’. In Venezuela, the streets are closed on Christmas Eve, and families roller-skate to church. In Brazil, the largest Catholic country in South America, Midnight Mass is the most important event of all, known as the Missa de Galo.
Christmas is a time for joy and togetherness, and there is always something special about the way different cultures celebrate it. Exploring traditions from around the world can bring us closer together and help us appreciate each other's unique ways of celebrating the holidays. Whether you've experienced them for yourself or not, these traditions serve to remind us of the reason for the season and the unity that comes with Christmas.
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