Have you ever wondered how other countries celebrate this magical season? We put together a list of traditions from around the world that you can incorporate into your own family fun. Add something new from days of old!
Iceland:
Make up your own “Yule Lads” to visit the children on the thirteen nights leading up to Christmas. These are mischievous lads who leave treats for the children (or potatoes if they have misbehaved). Background stories of the Icelandic Yule Lads are very specific to the culture so you might want to tweak them a bit for your household.
Japan
Instead of the traditional turkey or ham dinner, order a bucket dinner from KFC. This has been the traditional Christmas Day dinner in Japan since the 70’s. For dessert enjoy homemade strawberry shortcake, known in Japan as a “Christmas Cake”.
Philippines
The parol, a Filipino star lantern, is one of the most notable Christmas traditions of the Filipino culture; it is a representation of hope and community. You can make your own parol with the kids thanks to an easy tutorial by Little Passports.
Ethiopia
So many traditions involve food and sweets, so here is one to break up the eating and get you outside. In Ethiopia the game of ganna is played on Christmas afternoon. It is similar to field hockey. Don’t have a hockey stick? Grab any outdoor equipment and take the family outside for some fresh air and fun.
Syria
Story has it that one of the three wise men had a smaller camel who was not able to make it to the manger, this camel was made immortal by baby Jesus and comes on New Years Eve to put toys and candy in the children’s shoes. You can create a New Years tradition by placing hay and feed out for the camel, in exchange for gifts. (an alternative to actual hay would be yarn, string, or painting/drawing a hay bale)
Scotland
Christmas in Scotland is celebrated over four weeks! There are plenty of traditions but one of most fun is The Loony Dook. It is a parade of people in wacky outfits that marches straight into the North Sea. You can dress up with the kids and find your nearest safe body of water and dive in!
Australia
Since their climate is similar to ours, many Australians spend their Christmas day on the beach. Take a page from their book and head to Cocoa for a day of Pub subs and sun!
Venezuela
The Venezuelan Christmas tradition is making hallacas (tamale style food) by the hundreds. The women get together over two days and make their own version of the corn meal pockets filled them with meat, veggies and any other special ingredients. The women then exchange them and try each other’s versions. This is the main dish for the Christmas Eve party that goes on all night, along with Pan de Jamon (a sweet bread filled with ham, raisins and olives) Grab either of these dishes at your local Hispanic market and enjoy them at your Christmas Eve party.
Canada
Canadians hold Christmas cookie-baking parties! They bake dozens of cookies and exchange them so everyone has a variety. This is a great time to have friends over for baking or throw a cookie exchange party with the kids!
Croatia
On the 13th of December, St. Lucias day, Croatians plant wheat grass in a bowl of soil and allow it to grow until Christmas day. It reminds them of new birth and life. The longer and fuller your wheat grass plant is, the more successful you will be in the New Year! Grow your own with the kids using this easy kit. You can use the leaves for a post holiday cleanse in January!
