Explore 12 Unique Christmas Traditions from Around the World

1. Explore the German Christmas Markets for Festive Shopping.

Experience the magic of German Christmas Markets in cities such as Berlin, Munich, Nuremberg, and Duesseldorf. These Christkindlmarkts offer a festive atmosphere where both locals and visitors can explore handmade souvenirs and indulge in seasonal treats like lebkuchen and pfeffernüsse. Some of these markets and villages have a history dating back 500 years, re-created annually. If you plan to visit a German Christmas market this year, remember to adhere to any social distancing guidelines and mask-wearing protocols.

2. Celebrate Nostalgia: Ugly Christmas Sweater Parties, a Trending Tradition

In recent years, the theme of Ugly Christmas Sweater Parties has gained considerable popularity. What were once considered fashionable holiday outfits worn by our parents and grandparents have now become the humorous focal point at these gatherings, evolving into a lighthearted family tradition. The tradition of donning over-the-top holiday sweaters is likely to endure, serving as a source of laughter and a means to bring people together. Consider hosting your own ugly Christmas sweater party as a festive and amusing way to celebrate. If you’re in the mood for dressing up, explore our list of Christmas outfit ideas for the perfect family holiday card.

3. Dive into Chilly Adventures: Consider Taking a Polar Bear Plunge

If you’re up for a unique Christmas adventure, consider taking a plunge into freezing cold water on Christmas morning. In Brighton, England, hundreds of daring individuals don their swimsuits and Santa hats for the annual Christmas Day Dip. While this tradition is a highlight in Brighton, it’s also practiced in various other locations worldwide, including London’s Serpentine Lake, Sandycove in Dublin, and numerous cold bodies of water. The idea of jumping into frigid Irish waters on Christmas morning might not appeal to everyone, but for those seeking an exhilarating start to the holiday, it’s a chilly tradition worth experiencing!

4. Indulge in a Festive KFC Feast

Despite Christmas not being traditionally viewed as a major celebration in Japan, the KFC Christmas feast has gained popularity in recent years. Families often pre-order their KFC meals, turning the fast-food chain into a holiday staple. The festive menu may include special items, creating a flavorful and unconventional way to mark the Christmas festivities. This quirky tradition showcases the global diversity in how people choose to celebrate the holiday season. So, if you find yourself in Japan during Christmas, consider joining in on the KFC Christmas feast for a delightful and unexpected holiday experience.

5. Glide through Urban Festivity: Try Roller Skating Down City Streets

This vibrant tradition brings a sense of joy and community spirit to the Christmas festivities in Caracas. The streets, usually bustling with traffic, transform into roller skating lanes, creating a festive atmosphere as families and friends roll together to attend the Christmas church service. It’s a unique blend of celebration, physical activity, and holiday cheer, showcasing the creative and lively ways people around the world embrace the Christmas season. If you ever find yourself in Caracas during Christmas, consider joining in on the fun and rolling into the holiday spirit with the locals.

6. Embrace Folklore: Join the Tradition of Hiding Brooms during Christmas

This centuries-old tradition is a whimsical nod to Norwegian folklore, where Christmas Eve holds a veil between the mortal and supernatural realms. Families come together to carry out this charming act, ensuring a broom-free household and safeguarding against any mischievous spirits seeking a midnight ride. The act of hiding brooms not only weaves a thread of history into modern celebrations but also serves as a delightful reminder of the magical tales that have been passed down through generations, adding a unique touch to Norway’s festive season.

7. Experience Yesteryear’s Charm: Transport Yourself to a Dickens Fair

The Dickens Fair creates a nostalgic journey filled with festive cheer and historical charm. Strolling through the lively stalls, attendees can interact with characters from Dickens’ novels, witness street performances, and immerse themselves in the period-specific ambiance. The attention to detail in the set design, costumes, and activities contributes to the authenticity of the experience, making it a beloved holiday tradition for those seeking a unique and enchanting escape into the past. If you’re drawn to the magic of Victorian London and crave a dose of yesteryear’s holiday spirit, the Dickens Fair is a must-visit celebration that continues to captivate audiences after decades of annual festivities.

8. Illuminate the Night: Engage in the Art of Building Giant Lanterns

On the Saturday preceding Christmas Eve, eleven villages in the city of San Fernando in the Philippines come alive with the mesmerizing glow of giant lanterns, showcasing their artistic brilliance in an annual competition known as The Giant Lantern Festival. This spectacular event draws visitors from across the country to witness the enchanting display.

Originating as small and simple creations, these lanterns have evolved over the years into elaborate, towering structures, some reaching close to 20 feet in height. Crafted in kaleidoscope patterns, the lanterns dazzle the night with intricate designs, illuminated by an array of electric bulbs. The Giant Lantern Festival has transformed into a radiant celebration, embodying the spirit of creativity and community during the holiday season.

9. Embrace the Darker Side: Join the Festive Chaos of a Krampus Parade

The Krampus Parade, with its eerie allure, has become a unique and growing phenomenon in European holiday celebrations. As young men don the frightening Krampus costumes, the streets come alive with a mix of fear and excitement, creating an unforgettable experience for both participants and spectators. This dark counterpart to St. Nicholas adds a mysterious and thrilling dimension to the holiday festivities, offering a fascinating glimpse into the diverse traditions that unfold across cultures during this enchanting season. If you’re seeking a blend of the sinister and the festive, the Krampus Parade is a chilling spectacle that promises a holiday experience like no other.

10. Majestic Yuletide Tradition: Witness the Giant Straw Yule Goat in Sweden

In Sweden, a colossal holiday tradition takes shape in the form of The Yule Goat, a giant structure standing at an impressive 42 feet in height, 23 feet in width, and weighing over 3 tons. Erected in the same location annually, this mammoth creation becomes a focal point of festive celebrations.

For those unable to experience the Yule Goat in person, a live stream is available from the first Sunday of Advent until its dismantling at the beginning of the New Year. However, this beloved tradition has faced challenges, as vandals have targeted the straw construction, setting it ablaze. Despite these unfortunate incidents, the Yule Goat endures as a symbol of holiday cheer, capturing the hearts of those who partake in this unique and enchanting tradition.