How Do People Around the World Celebrate Christmas?
Have you every wondered what other countries do at Christmas time to celebrate? I was think that the other day when I came to plan some of these blog posts, so I decided to do a bit of research and then show you on here, just in case you were as interested in it as I am! From Slovakia to Ethiopia, here's how different countries around the world celebrate the big day - enjoy :)
Japan - they enjoy a KFC for dinner
Celebrating Christmas isn't a traditional thing in Japan, but it's been widely known for several years now that the Japanese will order a KFC for dinner on Christmas day, or they'll book a table at a restaurant instead of cooking at home.
Poland - they have pre-dinner Christmas wafers
Christmas dinner, or Wigilia as it's also known, is eaten on Christmas Eve in Poland and it all begins with the handing out and eating of a thin square-shaped wafer which is usually made of water and flour and has an image of the Nativity scene on it. Everyone who is sat at the table will break off a piece of this wafer, sharing it as they go. Sometimes, family pets might also get a look-in, if they're lucky.
Slovakia - they serve up carp for Christmas dinner
People in Slovakia will enjoy a carp on Christmas Eve. But rather than buy one from the supermarket or local fishmongers, those who are more traditional will actually go out and catch the fish themselves. They'll then keep them in the bath for a few days until they're ready to prepare and eat it. According to legend, the scales have the power to bring good fortune and good luck for the year ahead.
Sweden - they celebrate St Lucia's Day
St Lucia's Day isn't just celebrated in Sweden, but also in Norway and Finland. It's a part of the Christmas celebrations that commemorates someone, a woman, who was thought to be one of the first Christmas Martyrs. The celebrations will usually involve candle-lit processions.
The eldest girl from each family will then have to dress up as St Lucia, wearing white robes and a wreath that's typically lit with candles. They will then serve up S-shaped Lucia buns and coffee, or mulled wine, to the others.
Greece - as well as Christmas trees, they also have Christmas boats
Like in England, Greece will decorate Christmas trees, but they will also adorn boats with festive decs as well. The first Christmas tree to be put up in Greece was recorded in 1833, right next to a large, elaborately-decorated boat. It was put up as a way to celebrate and welcome back the men who had returned from sea voyages. Today, you'll find lit-up boats alongside Christmas trees, especially in Athens and Thessaloniki.
Ethiopia - Christmas processions take place
Ethiopians will celebrate Christmas, or Ganna/Genna as they'd otherwise call it, on 7th January, in accordance with the Ethiopian Orthodox Calendar. Mass will begin with a candle-lit procession where thin white shawls are worn, known as a Netela. This is done three times around the church before the service commences. Gifts aren't usually received or given during Ganna as it's reserved for Church, food and games for everyone to enjoy.
Germany - they put on impressive Christmas markets
In Germany, the Christmas markets are the perfect opportunity for you to do your Christmas shopping and enjoy some beverages along the way. The Christmas markets in Germany are unrivalled across the world, with hundreds of thousands flocking to Berlin to experience an authentic Christmas market vibe. With unique, and often handmade, gifts available, you'll struggle not to find something for everyone and have fun doing it.
Austria - Krampus goes looking for the naughty children
If you thought that coal in your Christmas stocking was bad if you'd been naughty as a child, then think again. Krampus is a half-man, half-goat creature that comes in the night to drag the bad children to the underworld.
Sometimes, men will dress up for the Krampus Run, or Krampuslauf, as it's known as in Austria, where they'll parade the streets in search for some kiddies to scare. Don't worry though, they still have St Nicholas who is on hand to reward the good children.
Singapore - they display spectacular Christmas lights
With Singapore's Orchard Road shopping district often displaying the most amazing lights at Christmas, it's almost impossible to look at it without having your jaw drop. The locals will often follow suit, with villages putting on an incredible light display as well.
Australia - they spend Christmas on the beach
Christmas falls during Australia's summer season and so it'll be sweltering hot by the time the big day arrives. As a result, many families will spend Christmas Day on the beach, often with a barbecue. Some people might also play a game of backyard cricket if they're feeling up to it.
Iceland - Father Christmas places treats inside their shoes
Iceland will start to celebrate Christmas 13 days beforehand, with the kids getting presents from 13 different Father Christmases, or Yule Lads as they like to call them. Each "lad" has different qualities, but every one of them has a feisty side.
If the children have been good, then all they have to do is leave their shoes on the windowsill and the Yule Lads will, in turn, leave a little gift behind inside. If, however, the children haven't behaved so well, then they'll get a rotten potato in their shoes instead.
Mexico - they enjoy all-night parties
In Mexico, families will celebrate Nochebuena on Christmas Eve. On this night, lots of food, singing and dancing will happen, as well as a few swings at the odd pinata for the children. Those who are more religious will attend midnight mass, but the focus is on family and simply enjoying being together.
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I hope you enjoyed this blog post? Let me know in the comments whether you already knew some of these facts or if you're from a different country who has a unique well of celebrating Christmas and I'll see you again very soon with a brand new blog post :)
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