Ever wondered what Christmas traditions look like around the world? Be warned: while some of them are heartwarming, others are downright… spooky.
You’ve probably heard (or read) us say this plenty of times, but it’s the most wonderful time of the year! Christmas is the holiday many of us look forward to for presents, hot chocolate, carolling and snow (or in our case, soap bubbles). You’ll catch us down at bustling Christmas markets, admiring the Orchard Road lights, and gathering for festive feasts at home or in uppity restaurants. But have you ever wondered how other countries celebrate this holiday? We share weird and wonderful Christmas traditions around the world that’ll either warm your heart or give you goosebumps.
But first, let’s talk about the meaning of Christmas
The word ‘Christmas’ may conjure up images of shopping mall Santas, gift exchanges with friends and family, and turkey on the table. But there’s more to it than that.
Christmas originally began as a Christian holiday to celebrate God’s love and gift of salvation to the world, marked by the birth of His son Jesus Christ. It’s a time when Christians come together to reflect on their faith and remember the historic moment when the prophecy was fulfilled.
Over time, many winter festivals and traditions became linked with Christmas – turning it into the well-loved holiday known and appreciated by everyone today. This includes the works of Saint Nicholas, who eventually became known as Santa Claus or Father Christmas; Yule, a Germanic indigenous festival to celebrate the winter solstice; and Saturnalia, an ancient Roman festival to honour the god of Saturn.
No matter the reason for celebration, it’s clear that Christmas remains a joyful time we hold close to our hearts.
Christmas traditions around the world
1. Christmas in central Europe: The Krampus run
We’re all familiar with Santa Claus and his bevy of elves and reindeer. But have you heard of Krampus? Kind and jolly Santa leaves presents for good kids under the Christmas tree. But Krampus, a half-goat, half-demon creature, punishes bad children by beating them with sticks (and in worse cases, eats or takes them back to hell with him).
In central Europe, it’s celebrated in festive traditions like the Krampus run. People come dressed as the demonic entity and parade through the streets. And of course, there’s plenty of alcohol involved.
2. Christmas in Japan: Buckets of KFC
Think of a Christmas feast and you may visualise classic dishes like turkey, roast beef, mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce. But in Japan, Christmas is synonymous with Kentucky Fried Chicken. Yes, friends and family actually come together to celebrate over a bucket of fried chicken.
Wondering why? Well, in 1974, KFC put out an advertising campaign during the festive season using the tagline ‘Kentucky is Christmas’. Ever since then, the Japanese have associated this particular holiday with KFC’s fried chicken. Talk about an effective marketing strategy!
3. Christmas in Germany and Austria: Frau Perchta the belly-slitter
In the Alpine regions of Germany and Austria, one demonic Christmas witch terrorises all. Her name is Frau Perchta, and she has zero tolerance for messiness or ill-behaved children. Legend has it she appears on the twelfth night of Christmas along with her troupe of spirit followers. If she senses a lazy or naughty child, she slits their belly open and stuffs them with straw and pebbles.
To frighten Frau Perchta and her spirit followers away, some Austrian groups dress up in masks and costumes to perform rituals during Christmastime. Now, isn’t that spooky?
4. Christmas in Australia: Santas surfing
It’s not a white Christmas in Australia, but it’s definitely a warm one. There’s plenty of sun and heat, which makes the crystal clear waters of the beach an ideal place for cooling off. It’s the best time to axe those Christmas jumpers and throw on some candy cane-themed bathers instead.
Down at Bondi Beach, hundreds of Australians turn up annually in Santa hats and costumes to surf and raise money for charity. A world record was even broken back in 2015 when a total of 320 locals came dressed in Santa gear to catch some waves. What a sight that must’ve been.
5. Christmas in Iceland: A very unfriendly Yule Cat
The Yule Cat isn’t the furry, adorable companion you think it is. This monster cat is said to live in the mountains together with Gryla – a troll or ogress that devours children on Christmas Eve. What puts off the Yule Cat and its evil mistress, you might ask? The answer: new clothes.
Children are given a brand new outfit by their parents if they complete their chores before Christmas Eve. Those who aren’t gifted any due to their laziness are said to be snatched up by the Yule Cat and its evil mistress.
6. Christmas in the UK: Cracker-pulling competitions
Ahh, the Christmas cracker. What’s a Christmas party without one? This fun little paper tube that’s filled with surprises was first invented by Tom Smith, a confectioner from London back in 1846. He initially used the paper wrapping as a case for his bonbons, but proceeded to replace the sweets with trinkets, paper crowns and jokes scribbled on pieces of paper. Now you’ll find families all over the UK enjoying Christmas crackers whilst huddled ‘round the table on Christmas Day.
We can’t get enough of all these unique Christmas traditions from all around the world! Let us know if you’ve got more to share, we’d love to hear from you.