- December 24, 2024
Christmas Traditions Around The World
Step into the enchanting world of Christmas traditions, where festive customs and cherished family rituals come to life.
Christmas unites billions of people across the globe in a joyous celebration of diverse and unique traditions. While December 25th shines as the centerpiece, the season’s festivities illuminate different parts of the world in their own distinct ways. With over 160 countries adding their unique touch, Christmas transforms into a kaleidoscope of traditions.
From heartwarming church services to decorating trees, watching holiday movies, and baking delectable cookies, these cherished customs offer something for everyone. Explore timeless classics and fresh inspirations with this list of some global Christmas traditions to make this year’s celebrations with your family even more memorable.
Classic Christmas Traditions in the US
- Watch a Christmas Movie
Enjoy holiday classics like Home Alone, Elf, or It’s a Wonderful Life as part of your family’s cozy holiday tradition.
- Christmas Tree Hunting
Bundle up and head to a local tree farm to choose and cut down your own Christmas tree. Complete the day with hot cocoa, hayrides, and the triumph of finding the perfect tree.
- Set Up a Christmas Tree
Adorning a Christmas tree is one of the oldest holiday traditions, dating back to the 15th century. In the U.S., 30-35 million real trees are sold annually. Whether real or artificial, decorating the tree signifies the start of the holiday season.
- Hide the Christmas Pickle
This whimsical game involves hiding a glass pickle ornament on the Christmas tree. The first child to find it on Christmas morning earns an extra gift or the privilege of opening the first present. Though thought to be German, this tradition originated in the U.S. in the late 1800s.
- String Home & Yard Decorations
Transform your home into a glowing wonderland with dazzling Christmas lights. Many families enjoy visiting neighborhoods to admire spectacular light displays synchronized with festive tunes.
- Hang the Mistletoe
Dating back to the 2nd or 3rd century, mistletoe was believed to ward off spirits and bring good fortune. Today, it’s a symbol of affection and camaraderie — and the inspiration for holiday kisses.
- Host or Join Christmas Dinner
Sharing a meal with family and friends is a cornerstone of Christmas. It’s a time for delicious food, warm company, and reflections on the year.
- Bake Christmas Cookies and Decorate Gingerbread Houses
Baking cookies, pies, or constructing gingerbread houses is as much about bonding as it is about sweets. Don’t forget to leave a few cookies and milk for Santa!
- Spread Joy with Random Acts of Christmas Kindness
Starting December 1st, participate in RACK (Random Acts of Christmas Kindness) by performing small, thoughtful deeds that spread holiday cheer.
- Exchange Gifts
Gift-giving, inspired by the Wise Men’s offerings to baby Jesus, is a beloved tradition. In America, creative exchanges like Secret Santa and White Elephant bring groups together.
- Cozy Up in Christmas Eve PJs
Matching Christmas pajamas add a playful and warm touch to the holiday spirit.
- Send Christmas Cards
Spreading joy through heartfelt messages remains a treasured tradition.
- Hide an Elf on the Shelf
This modern tradition involves a mischievous elf who observes children’s behavior and reports to Santa each night.
- Listen to Christmas Songs & Go Caroling
Fill your home with holiday music or bring joy to others by singing carols in your neighborhood.
Unique Christmas Traditions from Around the World
- German Christmas Markets
Visit Christkindlmarkts in cities like Nuremberg and Munich for handmade gifts and seasonal treats like lebkuchen. Some of these markets date back 500 years.
- Ugly Christmas Sweater Parties
Turn outdated holiday sweaters into a source of laughter with this fun and festive theme.
- Polar Bear Plunge
Join hundreds in Brighton, England, and other locations for a refreshing Christmas swim in freezing waters.
- Feast on KFC in Japan
A newer tradition in Japan involves enjoying Kentucky Fried Chicken as a Christmas Day meal.
- Christmas Pudding in Britain
Families make this rich dessert on Stir-up Sunday, adding charms for luck. On Christmas Day, it’s flambéed with brandy for a dazzling finish.
- Hide the Brooms in Norway
To prevent witches and spirits from flying, Norwegians hide all their brooms on Christmas Eve.
- Roller Skate to Church in Venezuela
Caracas residents skate to church on Christmas morning, with roads closed for this festive activity.
- Throw Shoes for Love in Czechia
Unmarried women toss shoes over their shoulders on Christmas Day. If the toe points to the door, a wedding may be in their future.
- Step Back in Time at a Dickens Fair
Cities like San Francisco host Victorian-themed fairs with vintage costumes, festive food, and old-world charm.
- Build Giant Lanterns in the Philippines
The Giant Lantern Festival in San Fernando features intricate lanterns, some nearly 20 feet tall, illuminating the night in stunning patterns.
- Attend the Krampus Parade in Austria
Krampus, St. Nicholas’s frightening counterpart, makes an appearance in parades to scare naughty children.
- View the Yule Goat in Sweden
A massive straw goat is constructed annually in Gävle. Despite its size, it often falls victim to arson attempts.
- Ice Skate in Downtown New York
The iconic rink at Rockefeller Center becomes a holiday must-see, especially after the tree lighting ceremony.
- Eat Fried Caterpillars in South Africa
Christmas caterpillars are a delicacy said to bring good luck for the new year.
- Exchange Books on Christmas Eve in Iceland
Known as Jólabókaflóð, this tradition involves gifting books and spending the night reading together by the fire.
Make Holiday Magic
No matter which traditions you celebrate, Christmas is a time for creating joyful memories with loved ones. Happy Holidays!