12 Unique Christmas Holidays Around The World 2021

Christmas is a time for joy, giving, and celebration with loved ones. While many of us are familiar with the traditional Christmas holidays, there are many unique and fascinating ways that Christmas is celebrated around the world. From festive markets to special foods, each country and culture has its own twist on the holiday season. In this article, we'll explore 12 unique Christmas holidays around the world, highlighting their customs, traditions, and what makes them special.

The diversity of Christmas celebrations is a reflection of the world's rich cultural heritage. Whether you're interested in exploring new traditions or simply learning more about how others celebrate, this article is for you. So, let's embark on a journey to discover the unique Christmas holidays around the world.

1. Japan: A Christmas Celebration with a Twist

In Japan, Christmas is not a national holiday, but it has become more popular in recent years, especially among young people. One unique aspect of Christmas in Japan is the tradition of eating Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) on Christmas Eve, a tradition that started in the 1970s as a successful marketing campaign. Many Japanese people also celebrate Christmas with a Christmas cake, but it's often a white sponge cake topped with strawberries and whipped cream, rather than the traditional fruitcake.

2. Iceland: The Yule Lads

In Iceland, Christmas is a time for storytelling and mischief. The country has a unique tradition of the Yule Lads, 13 mischievous spirits who visit children over the 13 nights leading up to Christmas. Each Yule Lad has a unique personality and prank, such as stealing sausages or licking spoons. Icelandic children leave their shoes on windowsills, and the Yule Lads leave small gifts or playful notes.

3. India: A Festival of Lights and Colors

In India, Christmas is a minor holiday compared to other festivals like Diwali, but it's still celebrated with great enthusiasm. Indian Christians decorate their homes with stars, angels, and Christmas trees, and exchange gifts with family and friends. On Christmas Eve, many churches hold midnight mass, followed by a festive meal and music.

4. Italy: La Befana and the Epiphany

In Italy, Christmas is a time for family, food, and festivities. One unique tradition is the celebration of La Befana, a friendly witch who delivers gifts to children on January 6th, the Epiphany. According to legend, La Befana was a kind old woman who was asked by the Three Wise Men to join them on their journey to find the baby Jesus. She declined, but later regretted her decision and set out to find the baby, leaving gifts for all the children she met along the way.

5. Ethiopia: Ganna, a Christmas Celebration

In Ethiopia, Christmas is known as Ganna, and it's celebrated on January 7th. The celebration begins with a procession to the church, followed by a day of picnics, games, and music. One unique aspect of Ganna is the traditional game of "Ganna", a type of hockey played on horseback.

6. Sweden: St. Lucia's Day

In Sweden, Christmas is a time for cozying up with family and friends. One unique tradition is St. Lucia's Day, celebrated on December 13th. On this day, girls dress up as "Lucia" and sing Christmas carols, while boys dress up as "Star Boys" and distribute treats.

7. Mexico: Posadas and Piñatas

In Mexico, Christmas is a time for festivities and celebration. One unique tradition is the Posadas, a nine-day celebration beginning on December 16th. During this time, families reenact the journey of Mary and Joseph, going from house to house asking for shelter. Another fun tradition is the breaking of piñatas, filled with candy and treats.

8. Germany: Christmas Markets and Glühwein

In Germany, Christmas is a time for festive markets and warm drinks. One unique tradition is the Christmas market, where visitors can find handmade crafts, try traditional foods, and drink Glühwein, a warm mulled wine.

9. Australia: Santa on the Beach

In Australia, Christmas is a time for sunshine and outdoor festivities. One unique tradition is the Santa Claus parade, where Santa arrives on a surfboard or boat, rather than a sleigh.

10. Poland: Wigilia and the Star Man

In Poland, Christmas is a time for family and tradition. One unique custom is the Wigilia, a special Christmas Eve dinner that includes 12 courses to represent the 12 apostles. Another fun tradition is the Star Man, a figure who brings gifts to children on Christmas Eve.

11. Russia: New Year's Eve and the Snow Maiden

In Russia, Christmas is not a major holiday, but New Year's Eve is a big celebration. One unique tradition is the Snow Maiden, a figure who brings gifts to children on New Year's Eve.

12. Greece: Karavaki and the Christmas Boat

In Greece, Christmas is a time for festive decorations and traditional foods. One unique custom is the Karavaki, a Christmas boat that is decorated with lights and ornaments.

As we've explored these 12 unique Christmas holidays around the world, we've seen that each country and culture has its own special twist on the holiday season. Whether it's a festive market, a traditional meal, or a fun game, Christmas is a time for joy, giving, and celebration with loved ones.

We hope you've enjoyed this journey around the world, exploring the diverse and fascinating ways that Christmas is celebrated. Whether you're looking to try a new tradition or simply learn more about other cultures, we hope this article has inspired you to make your holiday season even more special.

Gallery of Christmas Celebrations from Around the World

Gallery of 12 Unique Christmas Holidays Around The World 2021