Christmas Around the World

Christmas is celebrated globally with traditions that reflect local culture, folklore, and seasonal climate. Others highlight community events, parades, or religious ceremonies.

These celebrations showcase how Christmas has been embraced, adapted, and enjoyed in unique ways across diverse nations and cultures throughout history.

1. In Iceland, kids get visits from 13 Yule Lads instead of Santa.

2. In Spain, the biggest holiday celebration is the Three Kings Day parade.

3. Australia celebrates Christmas in summer, often with BBQs.

4. In Norway, people hide brooms to keep away Christmas witches.

5. In Mexico, families celebrate Las Posadas for nine days.

6. The Philippines holds the longest Christmas season, from September to January.

7. In Italy, a friendly witch named La Befana delivers gifts.

8. In Finland, families visit saunas on Christmas Eve.

9. In Venezuela, people roller-skate to early-morning Christmas mass.

10. In Ukraine, Christmas is often celebrated on January 7.

11. In Greece, Christmas goblins called Kallikantzaroi cause mischief.

12. In Poland, Christmas Eve dinner begins when the first star appears.

13. In Ethiopia, Christmas is celebrated on January 7 and is called Ganna.

14. South Africans eat fried caterpillars as a Christmas delicacy.