Christmas is certainly the most wonderful time of the year right across the world. For those that celebrate it can be a period of love, giving and joy. Each country has its own culture and practices when it comes to the festive period that we may not have here in Ireland. These traditions from other countries are so interesting and gives us an insight as to how others celebrate the holidays. Here are some examples of other Christmas traditions across the world.
In Sweden, an ancient pagan tradition is carried on today. The Yule Goat has since become a giant straw goat that is over 42 feet high, 23 feet wide and weighs around 3.6 tons. It is called the Gävle Goat and is constructed in the same spot year in, year out. The goat has its own livestream which runs from the first Sunday of Advent until its taken down after New Year’s Day.
The Phillippines put on an impressive show around the holidays. The Giant Lantern Festival or Ligligan Parul takes place in San Fernando. It features beautiful lanterns that have thousands of spinning lights that shine brightly against the night sky. This practice is to symbolize the Star of Bethlehem. The city of San Fernando has earned the title of the “Christmas Capital of the Philippines”.
Iceland celebrates the 13 days of Christmas, as opposed to 12 days. Children leave their shoes by the window in preparation for visits by the 13 Yule Lads in the run up to Christmas. If they’ve been good, they will receive sweets in their shoes. However, if they have been bad, they’ll get rotten potatoes in their shoes.
For families in Finland, it is customary on Christmas morning to have porridge made from rice and milk and topped off with cinnamon, milk or butter. Whoever finds a hidden almond in the pudding “wins”. However, some families may hide a few as to avoid any disappointment. At the end of the day, warming up in a sauna together as a family is essential.
Christmas in New Zealand falls during the summer. Because of this, festive practices are very different to what we may know. Gathering with friends and family centres around a barbeque or a grill. This includes fresh seafood, meat and also vegetables. Instead of an evergreen Christmas tree, Kiwis celebrate under the Pohutukawa. This is a coastal species that blooms bright red in December.
In Denmark, Christmas Day celebrated brighter days. The winter solstice marked this celebration. This was before Christianity came to the country. Decorations include superstitious characters called nisser, which bring protection. Families dance around the Christmas tree singing carols on December 24th.
The Christmas season in Mexico begins in early December. A re-enactment of the journey of Mary and Joseph takes the form of a march called Las Posadas. Red poinsettia flowers decorate homes throughout the country.
Do you celebrate any of these Christmas traditions or others from different countries? Let us know down in the comments.
