- By Prerna Targhotra
- Fri, 20 Dec 2024 10:25 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Christmas Traditions: People all across the world are getting ready to celebrate Christmas but depending on where you are in the world, there might be significant differences in how the holiday is observed. While many customs such as sharing meals, exchanging gifts and decorating Christmas trees are shared by people from various nations, there are also distinctive and peculiar customs that add to the holiday's charm and memorability.
Various customs of Christmas show how other cultures infuse this joyous time of year with their own history, values and beliefs. These regional traditions serve as a lovely reminder of how Christmas unites people in an increasingly interconnected globe by commemorating not just the birth of Jesus Christ but also the depth of cultural heritage and the delight of spreading love and unity. Here are some amazing traditions of Christmas from across the globe that make festivities even more special.
Christmas Global Traditions
La Nochebuena, Mexico
The custom of La Nochebuena or the Good Night is a major part of the celebrations of Christmas in Mexico, which places a particular emphasis on family and community. This custom is observed on the evening of December 24 and revolves around a late-night meal that unites friends and family. The meal includes Mexican meals such as tamales, bacalao and ponche. Families attend Misa de Gallo, a midnight Mass after the feast which is followed by fireworks and joyous festivities that continue far into the night.
Christmas Witch, Italy
According to Italian folklore, on the evening of January 5, children are visited by La Befana, a good-natured old witch who leaves coal or black candies for misbehaving children and presents and candy in their stockings for good children.
The Yule Lads, Iceland
Global Christmas Traditions (Image Credits: Canva)
The Yule Lads are 13 naughty trolls who descend from the mountains one by one during the course of the 13 nights before Christmas, according to Icelandic legend. Children set their shoes by the window every night and if they have been kind, the Yule Lads give small gifts or candies; if they have been mischievous, they may leave a rotten potato.
Jolabokafloo, Iceland
Another charming Christmas custom that has gained popularity recently in Iceland is, Jolabokafloo commonly known as the ‘Christmas Book Flood.’ As part of this custom, friends and family give each other books to read during the holiday season on Christmas Eve. Christmas is a great time to read and Icelandic people have a strong literary tradition. The plan is to enjoy mulled wine or hot chocolate on Christmas Eve while reading a new book and taking in the holiday atmosphere.
Krampusnacht, Austria and Germany
Krampusnacht is a distinctive and rather eerie custom that is observed during the Christmas season in some parts of Germany and Austria. People commemorate Krampus, a horned, terrifying monster who according to legend, punishes mischievous youngsters while Saint Nicholas rewards good behaviour. On this night, individuals parade through the streets dressed as Krampus, complete with frightful masks and costumes.