These are some popular Christmas traditions around the world
From Europe to the Middle East
Christmas is a global celebration tapestry of unique customs reflecting the rich diversity of local cultures and traditions. While the essence of Christmas remains consistent—honouring the birth of Jesus Christ—how people celebrate varies, creating a vibrant patchwork of festive activities.
From the charming streets of Europe to the serene deserts of the Middle East, Christmas brings families and communities together in a heartwarming blend of joy and reflection, creating cherished memories that last a lifetime.
European traditions
Christmas traditions in Europe are rich and varied, with each country offering its unique twist on the celebrations. In Germany, the Advent season is eagerly anticipated. The famous Christmas markets, or “Christkindlesmärkte,” feature festive stalls selling handcrafted ornaments, mulled wine, and gingerbread cookies. Children look forward to the arrival of St. Nicholas, who visits homes on December 6th and fills shoes with sweets and small gifts.
In Italy, Christmas starts with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th and culminates on Christmas Eve with a midnight Mass and a large family meal. The meal often features traditional dishes like roasted meats, pasta, and “panettone,” a sweet bread filled with dried fruit. Christmas Day is spent with family, and the season continues into the New Year with the celebration of Epiphany on January 6th, when the “Befana,” a kindly witch, is said to bring gifts to children.
Christmas in the Americas
In the United States, Christmas traditions are a mix of old and new, influenced by various cultural backgrounds. Many Americans celebrate by decorating their homes with elaborate Christmas lights and putting up a Christmas tree.
The festive season begins after Thanksgiving with the “Black Friday” shopping rush and continues with gift exchanges, family gatherings, and traditional holiday meals like turkey and mashed potatoes. A favourite activity is watching Christmas movies, including classics such as ‘It Is a Wonderful Life’ and ‘A Christmas Story.’
In Latin America, Christmas is celebrated with an emphasis on family, religious observance, and vibrant festivities. In Mexico, for example, the “Las Posadas” procession re-enacts Mary and Joseph’s search for a place to stay in Bethlehem. This tradition, which takes place over the nine days leading up to Christmas, is filled with music, dancing, and breaking piñatas.
“Nochebuena” (Christmas Eve) is the highlight in Puerto Rico. It is a late-night feast that features dishes such as lechón (roast pork) and arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas).
Christmas in Asia
While Christmas is not as widely celebrated in Asia due to its diverse religious makeup, it is significant culturally in several countries. In Japan, Christmas is a secular holiday focusing on romance and joy. Many couples spend the evening together, creating a unique and beautiful tradition to appreciate.
A key part of the celebration is eating “Christmas cake,” a light sponge cake topped with strawberries. While Christmas is not a public holiday, decorations and lights can be seen in many cities, and shopping centres host special sales and events.
Christmas is a massive event in the Philippines, with celebrations starting early in September. The country is known for its elaborate Christmas decorations, including giant lanterns called ‘parols,’ symbolising the Star of Bethlehem. Filipinos attend a series of Masses known as ‘Simbang Gabi,’ a nine-day novena of dawn Masses culminating in a grand Christmas Eve feast with dishes like lechon and bibingka (rice cake).
Christmas in the Middle East
In the Middle East, Christmas is a festive occasion primarily for the Christian communities in countries such as Lebanon, Egypt, and Syria. In Lebanon, the holiday season starts with a massive display of lights and decorations while many families enjoy a festive meal featuring lamb, chicken, and various traditional pastries.
In Egypt, the Coptic Orthodox Church celebrates Christmas on January 7th with a fast until the evening, when a big feast of dishes such as “fatta” (rice and meat with garlic and vinegar) is served.
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Christmas is celebrated with a blend of Western and local traditions. The UAE, a predominantly Muslim country, is home to a diverse expat population, many of whom celebrate Christmas. In cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, malls and public spaces adorn Christmas decorations and giant trees, and Christmas markets offer holiday goods and food worldwide.
Christmas Eve services are held in churches, and many expatriates celebrate with festive dinners featuring traditional Christmas foods such as turkey, ham, and mince pies. Hotels and resorts in the UAE often host special events and brunches where families and tourists can indulge in luxurious spreads while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
One unique aspect of Christmas in the UAE is the warmth of the weather, which allows people to celebrate outdoors in a way not possible in colder climates. Another unique aspect is the blend of Western and local traditions, reflecting the diverse expat population and the country’s openness to different cultures.
Although Christmas is not a public holiday in the UAE, the country embraces the season’s spirit. Many locals and expats exchange gifts, and Christmas trees are common in homes and offices. For many, the holiday season also involves community outreach, with charities organising events to distribute food and gifts to those in need.
Around the world, Christmas is a time of joy, community, and reflection. Each region brings its traditions and cultural nuances to the celebration. Whether it is the warm lights of a European market, the tropical beaches of the Philippines, or the dazzling skyscrapers of the UAE, the spirit of Christmas transcends borders and unites people in the joy of the season.
In the United States, Christmas traditions mix old and new. Credit: Yavuz Eren Güngör
