8 Unique Christmas traditions from around the world
4 Minute Read
As much as we love traditional Christmas celebrations, such as decorating a tree, singing carols, and exchanging gifts, have you ever wondered how other countries celebrate this holiday? While some may imagine a jolly Santa Claus flying on his sleigh or leaving treats in stockings, others may envision something completely different. From feasting on fried chicken to playing games to finding hidden pickles, Christmas traditions vary greatly across cultures.
Here are unique Christmas traditions from across the globe that you might want to include in your holiday celebrations.
Mexico – Radish carving
Noche de los Rabanos, or the Night of the Radishes, is a captivating 125-year-old celebration held in the vibrant city of Oaxaca, Mexico. Famed for its lush, fertile lands, Oaxaca consistently produces bountiful harvests, and this unique tradition has its roots in a serendipitous agricultural occurrence. When radishes, usually harvested in the spring, were left to grow until December, they transformed into large and intriguingly shaped wonders.
Fascinated by these unusual forms, monks brought them to the Christmas market on December 23. Inspired by Oaxaca's rich tradition of wood carving, local artisans began sculpting nativity scenes from these oversized radishes.
The idea caught on, and in 1897, the mayor of Oaxaca officially recognized the radish carving event as an annual tradition at the Christmas market. Today, Noche de los Rabanos is a mesmerizing spectacle that draws visitors worldwide.
Netherlands - Shoes filled with presents
In the Netherlands, a charming tradition unfolds each December as children eagerly await the arrival of Sinterklaas, the Dutch counterpart of Santa Claus. Rather than hanging stockings, Dutch children place their shoes by the fireplace or back door in anticipation.
This delightful custom involves leaving small treats, such as carrots and apples, inside the shoes—gifts for Sinterklaas' trusty steed. In return, children hope to find their shoes filled with candies and small gifts the following day.
Japan - Fried chicken dinner
When you think of Christmas, fried chicken isn't usually at the top of the list. However, for Japan, it is. Although Christmas is technically not a national holiday in Japan, they've made up their way to celebrate, that being with a large bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken. In fact, KFC is so iconic to Japanese holiday culture that they will dress up Colonel Sanders statues as Santa.
It all started in 1976 with a campaign in Japan called "Kentucky for Christmas," and from there, a tradition was born. Today, eating KFC is so popular people in Japan will order boxes far in advance as they sell out quickly. It's also tradition to finish their holiday feast by indulging in a homemade strawberry shortcake made by a local bakery.
Norway – Hiding brooms
Norway has a fascinating practice rooted in old folklore—hiding brooms. This tradition dates back to when Norwegians believed that evil spirits and witches roamed freely on Julaften, or Christmas Eve, searching for brooms to ride upon. To thwart these mischievous spirits and prevent them from causing havoc, families across Norway take special care to hide their brooms and mops.
It's not just a matter of putting them in a closet; they ensure these cleaning tools are well concealed in the most unsuspecting places, sometimes outside the home, so that the spirits won't find them.
Germany - Finding a pickle
The Christmas pickle is a delightful German tradition shrouded in mystery, with its origins lost to time. The tradition involves hiding a pickle-shaped ornament among the Christmas tree branches. The fun begins as family members search for this elusive pickle during the festive season. The lucky person who finds it is said to receive an extra gift and a year of good fortune.
The Christmas pickle has gained popularity in North America. Pickle ornaments are available in Canada, allowing families to partake in this whimsical custom. If you want to add a new tradition to your holiday celebrations, try hiding a Christmas pickle yourself!
Venezuela - Roller skating to church
In Venezuela, Christmas morning is uniquely celebrated with the smooth glide of roller skates in a tradition known as las patinatas. In Caracas, the capital, it is a cherished custom for locals to don roller skates and glide to holiday masses held from December 16 to 24 each year. Venezuelan families lace up their skates and navigate the streets on their journey to church. Major roads are closed to vehicles, transforming bustling city streets into vibrant, festive pathways for skaters of all ages.
Since the 2000s, the tradition has gradually declined due to Venezuela's economic and political challenges. However, roller skating to Christmas mass continues to be a cultural tradition, with efforts underway to rekindle its popularity.
Philippines – Colourful lanterns
The Christmas lantern tradition in the Philippines is a must-see spectacle for any traveller. These vibrant parols, crafted with intricate designs and colourful lights, symbolize the Star of Bethlehem. A central feature of Filipino Christmas decor, parols are often displayed outside windows, adding festive charm to homes.
For an unforgettable experience, visit the Giant Lantern Festival in San Fernando, the Christmas Capital of the Philippines. Held annually in December, this festival showcases the creativity of local artisans through mesmerizing lanterns, some reaching up to 20 feet in diameter. Here, the night sky comes alive with dazzling lantern designs synchronized to music, creating a breathtaking display that draws visitors worldwide.
Sweden - Yule goat
Sweden's holiday season is steeped in a unique tradition centred around the Yule Goat, a symbol from the 11th century. Unlike the reindeer that might spring to mind, the Yule Goat holds a special place in Swedish holiday lore—originally believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits. Historically, families celebrated by placing miniature straw goats in their yards, a nod to this ancient custom.
In 1966, the tradition evolved into a grand spectacle with the creation of a massive straw goat in the town of Gävle. The building of the Gävle Goat has become a yearly highlight, drawing crowds eager to witness its construction either in person or via live streams. The goat stands proudly on display until the New Year, symbolizing Swedish holiday celebrations' enduring charm and spirit.
Experience these traditions for yourself
Thinking of experiencing Christmas in a new way? CAA Travel Consultants can help you book your next Christmas adventure.
