The holiday season is a time of immense joy, celebration, and the embrace of treasured traditions. Discover unique festivities from around the globe that add a special charm and magic to this time of the year.
AUSTRIA
Embrace the Krampus
In Austria, alongside the cheer of the holiday season, there’s a touch of dark folklore. Enter the Krampus, a horned, folklore figure who roams the streets on December 5th, punishing misbehaving children while St. Nicholas rewards the well-behaved. It’s a blend of fright and festivity, reminding everyone to stay on their best behavior.
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BAHAMAS
Revel in Junkanoo
The Bahamas welcomes the holidays with Junkanoo, a vibrant and spirited parade filled with colorful costumes, infectious music, and dancing in the streets. Taking place on Boxing Day (December 26th) and New Year’s Day, Junkanoo is a joyous celebration of Bahamian culture and heritage.
JAPAN
A Finger-Lickin’ Good Christmas with KFC
In Japan, Christmas means something slightly unexpected – a bucket of KFC! Thanks to a successful marketing campaign in the ’70s, enjoying a Christmas meal from Kentucky Fried Chicken has become a popular tradition, with orders placed weeks in advance.
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ITALY
Meet La Befana, the Gift-Giving Witch
In Italy, children eagerly await La Befana, a kind-hearted witch who flies on her broomstick on Epiphany Eve, January 5th. She delivers sweets and gifts to well-behaved children, filling their stockings, while leaving coal for the naughty ones, adding a touch of whimsy to the holiday season.
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MEXICO
Carving Creativity on the Night of Radishes
The Night of Radishes, or Noche de Rábanos, on December 23rd in Oaxaca, Mexico, transforms humble radishes into intricate works of art. Artisans carve these root vegetables into stunning sculptures depicting nativity scenes, historical events, or imaginative figures, showcasing their creativity and skill.
ICELAND
Yuletide Mischief with the Thirteen Yule Lads
Iceland’s holiday season is enlivened by the mischievous Thirteen Yule Lads, who start visiting homes thirteen nights before Christmas. Each lad has his own peculiar trait, leaving gifts or potatoes in shoes left on windowsills, adding a playful twist to the countdown to Christmas.
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UNITED STATES
Ugly Christmas Sweaters: Festive Fashion Faux Pas
Ugly Christmas sweater parties have become a popular American tradition, embracing gaudy, kitschy, and sometimes downright outrageous holiday-themed sweaters. It’s a lighthearted way to celebrate, with friends and family donning these tacky yet endearing garments.
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SWEDEN
Celebrate Saint Lucy’s Day
Sweden welcomes the holiday season with Saint Lucy’s Day on December 13th. Young girls dress as “Lucia brides,” wearing crowns of candles, and lead processions, symbolizing light prevailing over darkness.
GERMANY
Christmas Markets: A Feast for the Senses
The enchanting Christmas markets of Germany are a sight to behold. Laden with twinkling lights, aromatic mulled wine, handcrafted ornaments, and delicious treats like stollen and bratwurst, these markets evoke a festive spirit that captivates locals and tourists alike.
From eerie legends to joyous parades and peculiar meal choices, these global holiday traditions showcase the beautiful diversity of cultures around the world. Embracing these customs brings a deeper appreciation for the unique ways we celebrate this magical time of year.