Christmas Around the World: A Top 10 Look at Holiday Traditions You Might Not Expect

One of the greatest gifts travel gives us is perspective. The more you see the world, the more you realize that the traditions you grew up with are just one version of many. Christmas is celebrated in many different ways across cultures, climates, and histories. That’s what makes it so fascinating.

Here are ten Christmas traditions from around the world that show just how creative and meaningful the season can be.

1. Japan – KFC and Christmas Eve Dates

In Japan, Christmas is more about experience than religion. Christmas Eve is often treated like Valentine’s Day, with couples going out for special dinners. And somehow, KFC became the most popular Christmas meal. Families place pre-orders weeks in advance, turning fast food into a full-blown holiday tradition.

2. Mexico – Las Posadas

In the days leading up to Christmas, many Mexican communities celebrate Las Posadas, a series of nightly processions reenacting Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter. Each night ends with food, music, and gathering with neighbors. It’s festive, meaningful, and deeply rooted in community.

3. Philippines – The World’s Longest Christmas Season

In the Philippines, Christmas celebrations begin as early as September. Homes and streets fill with lanterns called parol, symbolizing hope and light. The season builds toward Simbang Gabi, a series of early morning church services that bring families together throughout December.

4. Iceland – Yule Lads and Christmas Books

Instead of one Santa, Iceland has 13 Yule Lads, each with their own mischievous personality. Kids leave shoes by the window and receive small gifts or pranks. Iceland is also famous for Jólabókaflóð, or the Christmas Book Flood, where books are exchanged and Christmas Eve is spent reading.

5. India – Stars, Mango Leaves, and Sweets

In parts of India, homes are decorated with paper stars and mango leaves instead of pine trees. Christmas is marked by sharing sweets with neighbors and attending church services, often followed by lively meals that blend local flavors with holiday favorites.

6. Finland – Sauna and Candlelight

Christmas Eve in Finland often begins with a family sauna, a tradition meant to relax and cleanse before the holiday. Many families then visit cemeteries to light candles in remembrance of loved ones. It’s a quiet, reflective approach to the season that feels deeply personal.

7. Venezuela – Roller-Skating to Mass

In Caracas, it’s tradition for families to roller-skate to early morning Christmas mass. Streets are sometimes closed to allow for safe skating, creating a joyful and communal atmosphere that feels uniquely local and unforgettable.

8. Ukraine – Spiderweb Christmas Trees

Ukrainian Christmas trees are often decorated with spiderweb ornaments believed to bring good luck and prosperity. The tradition comes from a folktale about a poor family whose web turned silver, and it adds a meaningful layer to holiday décor.

9. South Africa – A Very Different Christmas Meal

In South Africa, Christmas takes place during summer, and menus often reflect local ingredients. In some regions, caterpillars are considered a traditional part of the holiday meal, offering a reminder that festive foods vary widely around the world.

10. Australia – Christmas in the Summer Sun

With December falling in the middle of summer, Australians often celebrate Christmas outdoors. Beach days, backyard barbecues, and seafood lunches replace fireplaces and snow, giving the holiday a relaxed, sun-soaked feel.

Honorable Mentions

• Germany – Famous Christmas markets fill town squares with lights, mulled wine, and handmade gifts.

• Spain (Catalonia) – The Caga Tió is a log that “poops” candy when kids hit it with sticks.

• Czech Republic – Some families keep a live carp in the bathtub before Christmas dinner.

• Ethiopia – Christmas is celebrated in January with early morning church services and fasting.

• Norway – Many families hide their brooms on Christmas Eve, a tradition meant to ward off bad spirits.