Christmas is celebrated all over the world, but each country has its own unique way of marking the occasion. While traditions like Santa Claus, Christmas trees, caroling, and gift-giving are widely recognized, many cultures add their own special touch to the holiday. From festive meals to intriguing customs, Christmas around the world reflects the diverse ways people celebrate. Each country’s unique spin on the holiday brings a fresh flavor to the season, making Christmas a time of joy and unity.
Japan
In Japan, Christmas is less about religion and more about unique traditions. Despite only 1.1% of the population being Christian, the holiday is synonymous with KFC. With turkey unavailable, many families celebrate with KFC as their festive meal, a custom that has turned into a nationwide phenomenon.
Czech Republic
According to the Czech Tourist Authority, carp is a key symbol of Czech Christmas. Those who don’t eat it often keep one in the bathtub for a few days before releasing it. Another tradition involves placing carp scales in wallets to ensure financial prosperity throughout the year. Additionally, a traditional superstition has women throw a shoe on Christmas Day; if the tip points to the door, it signifies she will marry within a year.
Ethiopia
Ethiopians celebrate Christmas, known as Ganna or Genna, on January 7, following the Julian calendar. People dress in white, typically wearing the netela, a thin white cotton scarf with vibrant stripes at the ends, for the occasion.
France
In France, Christmas festivities conclude on January 6 with Epiphany, celebrating the Three Magi’s visit to baby Jesus. The French mark the occasion with the Galette des Rois, a flaky cake with frangipane, sold with a paper crown. Inside the cake is a ceramic trinket called the fève. The person who finds it in their slice wears the crown and is treated like royalty for the day.
Greenland
In Greenland, Christmas starts with the tradition of lighting orange stars in every home, creating a warm glow across the icy landscape. The celebrations span three days: December 24 for children, December 25 for adults and elders, and December 26 for youth. Festive meals include Arctic delicacies like mattak (whale skin and blubber), kiviak (fermented little auks), and reindeer meat, reflecting Greenland’s cultural heritage.
Guatemala
In Guatemala, Christmas begins on December 7 with La Quema del Diablo (Burning of the Devil), marking the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. At 6 p.m., communities light bonfires and burn devil piñatas to cleanse evil spirits. The festive event features devil costumes, firecrackers, and family gatherings with traditional buñuelos (donuts) and warm fruit punch.
Latvia
Latvia, known for its rich traditions, claims the first documented use of a Christmas tree in Riga during winter solstice celebrations. Pagan Europeans once decorated trees with candles and ornaments representing the sun, moon, and stars. Today, this tradition continues globally with fir trees as the centerpiece of Christmas decor. Latvians also adorn their homes with greenery to ward off evil spirits during the festive season.
Slovakia
In Slovakia, a unique Christmas tradition involves the head of the household tossing a spoonful of loksa, a mix of bread dough, poppy seeds, and honey at the ceiling. The more that sticks, the greater the family’s luck and prosperity for the coming year. This playful custom reflects Slovakia’s focus on bringing happiness and abundance during the holiday season.
Mexico
A touching Mexican legend tells of a poor girl who, with only a bunch of weeds, offered them to baby Jesus at a Christmas Eve service. When placed by the nativity, the weeds miraculously bloomed into bright red flowers, now called Flores de Noche Buena. These poinsettias, symbolizing the star of Bethlehem, have since become a lasting emblem of Christmas, adorning homes and churches worldwide.
Portugal
In Portugal, Christmas Eve is celebrated with the Consoada supper, a time for reflection and remembrance. The meal, which includes salted cod, boiled potatoes, and other dishes, is served before or after the Missa do Galo (midnight mass). Families also honor deceased loved ones by reserving a place at the table, ensuring their presence is felt. Some leave the table set overnight with a lit candle, symbolizing a connection between the living and the departed.
