10 Different Things People Do for Christmas in the US and Around the World

Delve into the warm and joyful realm of Christmas traditions, ranging from lively customs to enduring family practices. Uncover the enchantment of the holiday season through our guide.

Taking Another Look at Christmas Traditions

Christmas unites billions of people worldwide in a joyful celebration of their unique traditions. While December 25th takes the spotlight, the festive spirit brightens various parts of the globe at different times, each with its own special touch. With over 160 countries adding their twist to this season, Christmas magic manifests in countless ways. From cherished moments in church to the joyous act of tree decoration, festive movie watching, or baking delicious cookies, these traditions cover a delightful spectrum. Explore the top 10 traditions and find new ideas from our list of 12 global Christmas traditions to enhance your festive moments with family this year.

10 Traditional Christmas Practices in the United States

1. Enjoy a Festive Film

Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with beloved movies and TV shows. From timeless classics like “It’s A Wonderful Life” and “Miracle on 34th St.” to heartwarming cartoons such as “Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” and “Frosty The Snowman,” there’s no better way to celebrate the season. While some older gems may not resonate as much with the younger crowd, fear not! Newer family favorites like “Home Alone,” “Elf,” and “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” are always ready to light up our festive moments with a smile. With most of us having some time off during this season, don’t forget about the blockbuster movies set to be released. So, kick back, relax, and savor these delightful movies and shows during the holidays.

TOP-PERFORMING CHRISTMAS MOVIES BASED ON TICKET SALES

(SOURCE: BOXOFFICEMOJO)

Rank	Christmas Movie TOP-PERFORMING CHRISTMAS MOVIES BASED ON TICKET SALES (SOURCE: BOXOFFICEMOJO)	Gross Worldwide Ticket Sales
1	The Grinch	$511,595,957
2	Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!	$345,141,403
3	A Christmas Carol	$325,286,646
4	The Polar Express	$313,500,433
5	Elf	$220,885,524
6	The Holiday	$205,135,175
7	The Santa Clause	$189,833,357
8	The Nutcracker and the Four Realms	$173,961,069
9	The Santa Clause 2	$172,855,065
10	Four Christmases	$163,733,697

2. Decorate a Festive Christmas Tree

After enjoying a cozy movie marathon, why not partake in one of the oldest Christmas traditions dating back to the 15th century? It’s the joyful practice of selecting and decorating a Christmas tree. In the U.S. alone, an astonishing 30-35 million real Christmas trees find new homes each year, whether you choose to cut your own, buy one, or opt for an artificial tree. Decorating the tree marks the delightful beginning of the holiday season. If you decide to embark on a real-tree quest, take your time to find the perfect match—consider factors like scent, sturdiness for ornaments, needle retention, price, color, shape, and height. Amidst these considerations, you’ll intuitively discover the ideal tree to illuminate your home.

With the tree nestled in your home, it’s time for the decorating excitement to begin! Start by placing a festive tree skirt as a foundation. Then, let your creative spirit shine as you adorn the tree with twinkling lights, shiny tinsel, lovely garlands, and an array of ornaments and charming trinkets that perfectly match your family’s theme and personal style.

Many families have a heartwarming tradition of hanging a unique ornament every year, each carrying its own special meaning. Why not kick off your own family tradition by adding one special ornament to your tree annually? If you’re considering crafting special ornaments to share with your loved ones this year, Minted has you covered with personalized Christmas photo ornaments that you can even share with your family and friends.

3. Deck the Halls with Home and Yard Decorations

Bring the holiday magic beyond the Christmas tree by turning your home into a sparkling wonderland with enchanting light displays that will leave your neighbors amazed. Some displays even synchronize with favorite festive tunes, creating a magical dance of lights. Families near and far often embark on joyful journeys to discover the most stunning light spectacles, spreading miles of smiles.

Amidst all the decorating excitement, remember to hang stockings for every family member, including your furry friends! Fireplaces are not a necessity for stocking hanging – let your imagination run wild. You can drape them on the staircase railing, along garlands, on bookshelves, your bed’s head or footboard, the TV stand – the possibilities are endless! Explore our post on Christmas mantel decoration ideas for further inspiration.

4. Infuse a Romantic Atmosphere: Hang Up the Mistletoe

The delightful tradition of hanging mistletoe traces its origins back to the 2nd or 3rd century. Beyond its supposed ability to ward off mischievous spirits and bring good vibes to homes, mistletoe also symbolizes affection and camaraderie. And here’s the fun part – that’s the very origin of the tradition of sharing a kiss under the mistletoe!

5. Gather for a Festive Feast: Host or Join Christmas Dinner

Amidst the various Christmas traditions celebrated globally, the common thread is the joy of sharing a meal. Create lasting memories and reflect on the year by bringing friends and family together to savor a delightful feast. If the prospect of interacting with a larger group this holiday season makes you uneasy, consider hosting a special meal with your immediate household.

With countless food choices enjoyed worldwide during Christmas, some mainstays find their way to many festive tables. Classics like roast turkey, ham or chicken, potatoes, stuffing, and, of course, gravy are staples. Don’t forget to pair the meal with some festive cocktails.

If you’re the host, you can enhance the festive ambiance in the dining room and kitchen with napkin sets and tea towels featuring Christmas patterns. Candles and garlands on the dining table set the mood for a joyful Christmas dinner with your loved ones. Adding little accents and decorations around the house will undoubtedly make the season brighter and warmer for everyone.

Recognizing that not everyone experiences the same seasons and climate, in some parts of the world, Christmas might bring warmer temperatures. This could lead to serving colder or lighter dishes, making roasted meats served cold or enjoying seafood recipes more common in these warmer climates.

6. Create Sweet Memories: Bake Christmas Cookies and Decorate Gingerbread Houses

In addition to the delight of enjoying a hearty meal, the act of baking together frequently transforms into a beloved family tradition. Whether crafting cookies, baking pies, or assembling gingerbread houses, these activities perfectly embody the holiday ethos of giving rather than receiving. And, as a festive touch, remember to reserve a few cookies (accompanied by a glass of milk) for Santa’s anticipated visit. Popular Christmas snacks encompass:

• Sugar cookies adorned with intricate decorations
• Gingerbread men
• Yule log
• Pumpkin Pie
• Puppy chow/reindeer chow (Chex Mix treat)

7. Share the Joy: Exchange Christmas Gifts

The act of gift-giving, especially adored by children, is a cherished Christmas tradition rooted in the story of the Three Wise Men presenting gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to baby Jesus in the manger. Typically, gifts are placed under the Christmas tree or nestled within festive stockings. Explore unique gift ideas for your loved ones as you partake in this delightful tradition.

The timing and method of gift exchanges can vary globally. In certain European countries like the Netherlands, Germany, and Czechia, presents are opened as early as December 5th, just before St. Nicholas’ Day on December 6th. In the United States, creative ways of exchanging gifts in larger groups have emerged, including:

• Secret Santa: A popular tradition in workplaces or clubs where individuals are randomly assigned someone’s name and tasked with getting them a gift without revealing their identity.
• White Elephant: A playful twist on Secret Santa where all gifts are placed in a central location. Participants draw numbers to determine the order in which they choose a gift, with the option to take a previously opened gift from another person or select an unwrapped one.
• Christmas Story Pass-Around: In this gift exchange game, everyone begins with the present they brought. A Christmas poem or story is read aloud, and at specified breaks, gifts are passed to the left, right, or across the table until the story concludes.

The tradition of giving gifts is a heartfelt expression of appreciation for others and a recognition of their importance in our lives. As you navigate holiday shopping, remember that Christmas is a time to focus on others and find joy in the act of giving rather than receiving.

8. Spread Warm Wishes: Send Christmas Cards

Participating in the tradition of exchanging greeting cards has become a significant part of the holiday season. It serves as a wonderful means to connect with friends and family, conveying heartfelt sentiments and letting them know they are in your thoughts. This year has been notably unconventional, with many of us staying closer to home. Consequently, it’s likely been a while since some distant friends and family have seen your face. The annual exchange of holiday cards will hold even more value this December. Did you know that in the United States alone, more than two billion Christmas cards are sent each year?

As you choose Christmas cards for your loved ones, explore our extensive selection of beautiful and distinctive designs that capture the festive spirit of the holiday. Minted’s exclusive Christmas cards are curated by a global community of independent artists, ensuring you always discover a unique and stylish design. With various customization options available through Minted, you can add a personal touch to your holiday greetings. Impress your friends and family with stunning designs, premium quality, and expert craftsmanship. Explore the latest design trends we are observing this year.

9. Sprinkle Holiday Magic: Conceal the Elf on the Shelf

About 15 years ago, the Elf on the Shelf phenomenon emerged as a cherished family Christmas tradition. Rooted in a children’s story involving Santa’s elves vigilantly observing children and reporting their daily activities back to Santa, the tradition has gained widespread popularity among both adults and kids. Each day, the Elf conceals itself in a new spot around the house, turning it into an engaging daily search for the children.

These enchanting elves are believed to possess magical powers, bestowed upon them through adoption and love from a child. However, there’s a fundamental rule that children must adhere to – they are not to touch the elf, as doing so may strip the elves of their magic. If touched, the elves lose the ability to convey the children’s Christmas wishes to Santa.

10. Revel in Festive Melodies: Listen to Christmas Songs and Go Caroling

Music holds a significant role in numerous Christmas traditions globally. We gather with family and friends to listen to holiday favorites, curating playlists featuring cherished songs like “O Holy Night,” “Let It Snow,” “Jingle Bells,” and more.

One enduring Christmas tradition passed down through generations is caroling, where groups of people visit homes to spread holiday cheer through song. Some schools have also adopted this practice, encouraging students to serenade classrooms. Dating back to the 19th century, caroling remains a cherished tradition in many countries to this day.