There’s something universally heartwarming about holiday traditions. They ground us, bring us together, and fill the season with meaning. From the glow of Christmas lights to quirky local customs, each culture has its own special way of celebrating. These traditions don’t just mark the passage of time, they’re a connection to history, family, and community.
Some of these might surprise you. Who knew that fried chicken could symbolize Christmas cheer in Japan or that Venezuelans roller-skate to church on Christmas morning? Traditions range from the solemn to the eccentric, and their uniqueness is part of what makes them so magical.
If you’ve ever wondered how the rest of the world celebrates the season, you’re in for a treat. Here’s a collection of 14 holiday traditions from around the globe, some heartwarming, some delicious, and others just plain fun.
1. Giant Lantern Festival – Philippines
In San Fernando, Philippines, the Christmas season literally shines thanks to the Giant Lantern Festival. Known as the “Christmas Capital of the Philippines,” this city hosts an annual competition showcasing lanterns that are nothing short of masterpieces.
These lanterns, or parols, have grown in size and complexity over the years, often featuring intricate designs and thousands of lights. Originally crafted from simple materials like bamboo and paper, today’s lanterns are dazzling, high-tech creations that symbolize hope and unity.
2. Yule Lads – Iceland
Icelandic children don’t just have one visit from Santa to look forward to, they have 13! Starting December 12th, each of the 13 Yule Lads pays a visit in the nighttime to countdown until the big man himself arrives.
Each Yule Lad has a distinct personality, from Spoon-Licker (who steals spoons) to Sheep-Cote Clod (who harasses sheep). They leave small gifts in children’s shoes or potatoes for those who’ve been naughty. It’s a blend of humor, folklore, and festive cheer.
3. Kentucky Fried Christmas – Japan
Believe it or not, KFC is the Christmas dinner of choice in Japan. This unusual tradition dates back to the 1970s when a clever marketing campaign convinced families that fried chicken was the perfect way to celebrate.
Today, it’s so popular that people place their KFC orders weeks in advance. The iconic “Christmas Bucket” has become a staple, proving that traditions can be born from the most unexpected places.
4. Las Posadas – Mexico
In Mexico, Christmas kicks off with Las Posadas, a nine-night celebration reenacting Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter. Each evening, families and neighbors make their way around their communities, singing and knocking on doors until they find “room at the inn.”
This communal event culminates in a lively party with piñatas, tamales, and music. It’s not just a religious observance, it’s a celebration of community, generosity, and tradition.
5. Jolabokaflod – Iceland
Books and chocolate by candlelight? Sign us up. In Iceland, the “Yule Book Flood,” or Jolabokaflod, is one of the coziest holiday traditions around. Families exchange books on Christmas Eve, then spend the night reading and sipping hot cocoa.
This tradition celebrates Iceland’s literary heritage, unsurprising in a country where more books are published per capita than almost anywhere else. It’s a quiet, meaningful way to connect during the holidays.
6. St. Lucia’s Day – Sweden
December 13 is St. Lucia’s Day in Sweden, a celebration of light during the darkest days of winter. Young girls wear white gowns and crowns of candles, leading processions with traditional songs.
Families bake saffron buns called lussekatter and enjoy a day filled with warmth and light. It’s a beautiful tradition that bridges religious significance and cultural heritage.
7. Krampus Night – Austria
Think Santa’s naughty list is scary? In Austria, a horned creature from Alpine folklore named Krampus takes things to another level. On December 5, Krampus Night sees this beastly figure roam the streets, “punishing” misbehaving children.
Though it sounds terrifying, the tradition has become a mix of fun and fright. Parades and festivals celebrate Krampus with costumes, music, and plenty of spooky revelry.
8. Gävle Goat – Sweden
Sweden’s Gävle Goat is both a holiday symbol and an ongoing mystery. Built annually since 1966, this massive straw goat honors the Yule Goat, a figure from Scandinavian folklore.
But here’s the twist: vandals often try to burn it down. Its survival has become a holiday drama, adding an unexpected layer of excitement to the season.
9. Midnight Mass and Noche Buena – Latin America
For many in Latin America, Christmas Eve, or Noche Buena, is the highlight of the season. Families gather for a late-night feast featuring traditional dishes like tamales, lechón (roast pork), and panettone.
Afterward, they head to Midnight Mass to celebrate the spiritual side of the holiday. It’s a mix of faith, food, and family that lasts well into the early hours.
10. Epiphany and La Befana – Italy
In Italy, Christmas festivities extend to January 6, when Epiphany marks the arrival of the Three Wise Men. On this day, La Befana, a kindhearted witch, delivers gifts to children, much like Santa Claus.
The story goes that La Befana missed her chance to visit baby Jesus and has been making up for it ever since. Her whimsical legend adds a uniquely Italian touch to the holiday season.
11. Kwanzaa – Global
Kwanzaa, celebrated from December 26 to January 1, honors African-American heritage through the lens of seven core principles, including unity, self-determination, and creativity.
The week-long celebration involves lighting candles, storytelling, and communal meals, blending history with reflection. It’s a meaningful way to celebrate culture and community.
12. Hogmanay – Scotland
Scotland rings in the New Year with Hogmanay, a lively celebration featuring fireworks, music, and plenty of whisky. A beloved custom, first-footing, involves being the first person to enter a friend’s home after midnight, bringing gifts for good luck.
Hogmanay’s roots stretch back to Viking times, making it as much about history as it is about revelry.
13. Day of the Little Candles – Colombia
On December 7, Colombians light up the streets with candles and lanterns to honor the Virgin Mary. Known as Día de las Velitas (Day of the Little Candles), this tradition marks the start of the holiday season.
The warm glow of countless lights creates a magical atmosphere, bringing communities together in a stunning display of faith and unity.
14. Hanukkah – Global
Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. For eight nights, families light the menorah, spin dreidels, and enjoy festive foods like latkes and sufganiyot.
The holiday is a celebration of resilience and miracles, with customs varying slightly across Jewish communities worldwide.
14 Holiday Traditions From Each Decade That Show How Things Have Changed
Every decade brings its own flavor to the holiday season, shaped by trends, technological advancements, and shifting societal values. For instance, the cozy, homemade Christmas of the 1940s looks vastly different from the neon lights and plastic decorations that defined the 1980s. Yet, beneath these changes, the heart of the holidays, spending time with loved ones and celebrating goodwill, remains constant.
So, what do these changes tell us? They’re a snapshot of history, revealing how families and communities adapted to the cultural spirit of each decade. Let’s take a journey through 14 different holiday traditions, one from each decade, to see how they’ve evolved over the years.
14 Holiday Traditions From Each Decade That Show How Things Have Changed
15 Fun Holiday Traditions from Around the World
What’s fascinating is that some of these traditions go back hundreds of years, while others are surprisingly new, yet each has become deeply rooted in local culture. Some might be endearing, others a little strange, but all of them carry that same festive spirit. The world’s December traditions are as diverse as its people.
Here’s a peek at 15 of the most fun and quirky holiday traditions from around the world. Who knows, one of them might inspire a new tradition for you and your family this holiday season.
15 Fun Holiday Traditions from Around the World
12 of the Most Fun American NYE Traditions
New Year’s Eve in America is anything but ordinary. Sure, Times Square has its famous ball drop, but there’s a whole world of quirky, offbeat celebrations scattered across the country. It could be a glowing MoonPie in Alabama or a giant sardine in Maine, these traditions prove that creativity knows no bounds when it comes to welcoming a new year.
Check out these 12 fun and lesser-known American traditions that deserve a spot on your calendar.
12 of the Most Fun American NYE Traditions
With an honors degree in financial engineering, Omega Ukama deeply understands finance. Before pursuing journalism, he honed his skills at a private equity firm, giving him invaluable real-world experience. This combination of financial literacy and journalistic flair allows him to translate complex financial matters into clear and concise insights for his readers.
