As the festive season approaches, a heartwarming sense of unity envelops the world. Despite the varied cultures and climates, Christmas, a holiday rich in tradition and joy, finds a unique expression in every corner of the globe. From the snow-covered streets of New York to the sunlit beaches of Australia, let’s embark on a journey to discover how different countries celebrate this cherished holiday.
The Magical Lapland: Finland
In Finland, the Christmas season is deeply intertwined with the magic of Lapland, believed to be the home of Santa Claus or ‘Joulupukki’ as the Finns call him. The celebration begins on December 24, with families visiting saunas and enjoying a festive meal. Homes are adorned with beautiful decorations, and the serene snowscapes offer a true winter wonderland experience. Children eagerly await ‘Joulupukki’ who brings gifts in person, rather than sneaking down the chimney.
A Vibrant Celebration: Mexico
In stark contrast to the snowy Finnish Christmas, Mexico adds a vibrant flair to the holiday. The season starts with ‘Las Posadas’, a nine-day celebration leading up to Christmas, commemorating Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem. Families and friends gather for festive parades, breaking piñatas, and enjoying traditional foods like ‘tamales’. The highlight is the ‘Nochebuena’ (Christmas Eve) when families attend the midnight Mass and then feast together.
A Summer Christmas: Australia
Down under in Australia, Christmas comes in the middle of summer. Australians often celebrate December 25th with seafood barbecues on the beach, playing cricket, and enjoying the warm weather. Carols by Candlelight is a beloved tradition, where communities gather in parks and sing Christmas carols under the stars. The Australian Santa might even swap his traditional attire for something more suitable for the summer heat – and may even consider riding ashore on a surfboard in place of a sleigh!
The City of Lights: France
France, especially Paris, the City of Lights, becomes even more enchanting during Christmas. The French celebrate with ‘Le Réveillon’, a sumptuous feast after the midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. Delicacies like foie gras, oysters, and the famous ‘bûche de Noël’ (a yule log-shaped cake) are enjoyed. Small shoes are left by the fireplace, to be filled with gifts from ‘Père Noël’.
A Cozy Family Affair: United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, Christmas is a cozy, family-oriented affair. The Christmas Day feast is the highlight, with turkey, roast potatoes, and the famous Christmas pudding. Children eagerly await Father Christmas, who fills their stockings with treats. The Queen’s Christmas Message is a time-honored tradition, as families gather around their televisions to hear her annual address.
The Festival of Lights: Philippines
The Philippines, known for having the world’s longest Christmas season, starts celebrations in September! The ‘Parol’, a star-shaped lantern, symbolizes the festive season and adorns homes and streets. ‘Simbang Gabi’, a series of nine dawn masses leading up to Christmas, is a deeply cherished tradition. After the final mass, families enjoy a feast, with delicacies like ‘lechon’ (roast pig) and ‘bibingka’ (rice cake).
Embracing Difference
From the traditional Finnish saunas to the beach barbecues in Australia, each country adds its unique flavor to the celebration of Christmas. These diverse traditions remind us that while we may be spread across continents, the spirit of Christmas—a time for love, family, and giving—unites us all in a magical, global celebration. As we embrace our own customs, let’s also open our hearts to the beautiful diversity of Christmas traditions around the world.