Unique Christmas Traditions Around the World
Christmas is one of the most celebrated holidays worldwide, yet the traditions and customs surrounding this festive season vary greatly depending on the country and culture one is in. While in some countries, Santa Claus is the main figure, elsewhere there are unique traditions that make Christmas an unforgettable experience. From Christmas witches who bring gifts to impressive festive parades – we take a look at some of the most unique Christmas traditions around the globe.
1. Christmas Witches in Italy – La Befana
In Italy, the Christmas season does not end on December 25th. January 6th, known as “Epiphany,” is the highlight of the celebrations and is celebrated through the legend of La Befana. La Befana is a good, but mysterious witch who, according to stories, helped the three wise kings on their journey to Bethlehem. To thank her for her generosity, she has been flying through the skies every night from January 5th to 6th, bringing children sweets if they have been good and lumps of coal if they have been naughty.
Special Custom: In Italy, children hang their stockings on January 6th to receive gifts from La Befana. In some cities, there are also parades and festive processions in honor of the witch that light up the streets beautifully.
2. Santa Claus from Finland – Joulupukki
In Finland, where Santa Claus is known as “Joulupukki,” it is believed that Santa lives in his hometown of Rovaniemi on the Arctic Circle. A special tradition is to visit Santa in person and deliver Christmas wishes to him. The Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is a true winter wonderland during the holidays, attracting many tourists.
Special Custom: Finnish children do not set out milk and cookies for Santa; instead, they leave him a bowl of “Joulupuuro” (rice porridge) and a piece of cinnamon butter – a typical Christmas dish. Whoever finds the largest raisin in the porridge is said to have good luck in the coming year.
3. The Christmas Procession in Mexico – Las Posadas
In Mexico, Christmas is celebrated with a beautiful and festive tradition known as “Las Posadas.” This tradition lasts for nine days and begins on December 16th. Las Posadas commemorates the search for a lodging by Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem. Each evening, children carry lanterns and go from house to house singing songs to ask for shelter. Eventually, the “inn” is opened in the form of a house, and the community celebrates with sweets and drinks.
Special Custom: The highlight of Las Posadas is the breaking of the “piñata,” a colorful star-shaped figure filled with sweets. Breaking the piñata symbolizes overcoming temptation and finding inner peace.
4. The Krampus in Austria – A Scary Figure
In Austria and parts of Germany, the tradition of the “Kramperl” or “Krampus” has established itself. The Krampus is a frightful, demonic being that traditionally scares children who have misbehaved on St. Nicholas Day (December 6th). During the Krampus parades, which mainly take place in the alpine regions, people dress up in terrifying Krampus costumes, equipped with horns, fur, and a fearsome face, and roam the streets.
Special Custom: The Krampus run is an exciting spectacle where participants run through the streets with switches and bells while the audience watches in awe. This tradition symbolizes the distinction between good and evil and serves as a warning to behave well.
5. Christmas in Australia – A Summer Festivity on the Beach
Since Christmas in Australia is celebrated during the hot summer, the notion of snow and frost is quite untypical here. Instead, Australians often celebrate Christmas with a barbecue on the beach, where families gather with friends to grill, go swimming, and enjoy the summer weather. In many regions, Christmas parades are also held where participants appear in summer clothing rather than winter jackets.
Special Custom: The “Carols by Candlelight” parade in Melbourne is one of the most popular traditions. Here, thousands of people sing Christmas carols outdoors by candlelight, creating a particularly festive atmosphere.
6. The Christmas Boat Procession in Sweden
In Sweden, Christmas is a contemplative festival that is accompanied by traditional festive processions and the “Julbord,” a festive Christmas buffet, in many regions. In the Swedish town of Luleå, Christmas is celebrated with a very special tradition – the Christmas boat procession. Festively decorated boats sail along the icy waters with Christmas music, making the Swedish winter landscape appear even more magical.
Special Custom: Another Swedish tradition is the “Julfest,” where Swedes decorate their homes with Christmas decorations and enjoy the traditional Christmas meal. Popular dishes include “Gravad Lax” (cured salmon), “Köttbullar” (meatballs), and “Julskinka” (Christmas ham).
7. The Christmas Crib in Spain – Belénes
In Spain, setting up a Christmas crib, also known as a “Belén,” is a widespread tradition. In many cities, there are spectacular crib exhibitions depicting the life of Mary and Joseph, the birth of Jesus, and scenes from the Bible in detailed and artistic replicas. This tradition is deeply rooted, especially in cities like Madrid, Seville, and Barcelona.
Special Custom: On December 24th, many regions in Spain celebrate “Nochebuena,” a festive dinner where families come together to enjoy typical Spanish dishes such as “Pavo Trufado” (turkey with truffles).
8. Christmas in Iceland – The 13 Christmas Elves
In Iceland, there is a very special tradition surrounding the Christmas season called “Jólasveinar” – the 13 Christmas Elves. These elves come 13 nights before Christmas and bring children gifts if they have been good. Each elf has its own personality and quirks. In many Icelandic homes, children hang their shoes during the twelve nights, in which the elves leave sweets or gifts.
Special Custom: This tradition is considered by many Icelanders to be one of the most beautiful in the country, and there are many stories and songs about the Christmas elves that make the festive season special.
Conclusion
The world is full of unique Christmas traditions that make each country a special place during the festive season. Whether it is the Christmas procession in Mexico, the witch legend in Italy, or the spooky Krampus runs in Austria – each tradition brings its own magic and charm. These diverse customs demonstrate how varied and creative the celebration of Christmas is worldwide and how each culture has found its own special way to celebrate the holiday.