Christmas Traditions Around the World
Published November 22, 2024.
"It's the most wonderful time of the year"
Christmas is a magical time of year, celebrated around the globe in countless ways. Each country infuses its unique culture and traditions into the holiday, making it a season rich with diversity and joy. From festive meals to heartfelt gatherings, the universal themes of love, generosity, and togetherness shine brightly.
Throughout this Artza blog we will take you on a journey across the world and explore how different countries celebrate Christmas.
Holy Land: Pilgrimage to Bethlehem and Midnight Mass at the Church of the Nativity
Italy: La Befana
Mexico: Las Posadas Philippines: Giant Lantern Festival
Germany: Advent Calendars and Christmas Markets
Finland: “Christmas Peace” declaration and traditional sauna on Christmas Eve
Our Christmas Traditions Around the World blog will start with the place where it all began: the Holy Land.
Holy Land: A Pilgrimage to Bethlehem
Imagine standing in Bethlehem on Christmas Eve, surrounded by the history and spirituality of the place where the story of Christmas began. In the Holy Land, Israel, pilgrims from all over the world gather to celebrate Midnight Mass at the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, the birthplace of Christ. The atmosphere is electric yet deeply reverent, as people who have gathered from far and wide sing carols and light candles. It is a truly humbling, momorable reminder and experience of the true meaning of Christmas and the joy it brings to all who celebrate.
Italy: La Befana, the Christmas Witch
In Italy, Christmas doesn’t end on December 25th, so if you wish to continue with the festive celebrations Italy is the place to be. The holiday season continues until Epiphany, on January 6th, when La Befana, the kind-hearted Christmas witch, visits children. According to tradition, 'Befana flies from house to house, leaving candies for well-behaved children'. Families enjoy warm panettone and gather around glowing nativity scenes—an Italian specialty—to share stories and laughter.
Befana story, intertwined with the Nativity, adds a uniquely Italian touch to the season of giving.
According to tradition, La Befana lived a simple life in a small shack at the time of Jesus' birth. One fateful night, she was visited by the Three Wise Men, who were journeying to Bethlehem to see the Christ Child. Seeking directions and a place to rest, the Magi stopped at La Befana's home, where she welcomed them with warmth and hospitality. Grateful for her kindness, they invited her to join them in their search for the newborn King.
Despite the Magi’s invitation, La Befana declined, citing her unfinished chores. Later that night, however, she was startled awake by an extremely bright light in the sky, convinced that this was a divine sign, she quickly gathered gifts for the baby and set out to catch up with the Magi.
Tragically, La Befana lost her way and never reached Bethlehem. Filled with regret, she continues her search to this day.
Every year on January 5th, the eve of the Epiphany, it is said that La Befana flies on her broomstick, visiting homes across Italy. She leaves gifts and treats for sleeping children.
This heartwarming tradition is celebrated with festivals, songs, and the anticipation of La Befana’s visit, reminding families of the joy of giving and the timeless message of Christmas.
Mexico: Las Posadas
In Mexico, the nine nights leading up to Christmas are filled with the lively tradition of Las Posadas, reenacting Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter.
Families take turns hosting processions, complete with singing, candlelight, and prayer. Over time, posadas shifted from churches to neighborhoods and homes, becoming intimate gatherings filled with community spirit and at the end of the evening, the host opens their doors, inviting everyone to enjoy a feast of tamales, piñatas, and more.
Philippines: The Giant Lantern Festival
In the Philippines, the Christmas spirit lights up the town of San Fernando with the Giant Lantern Festival. The festival showcases the artistry and ingenuity of local communities as they create massive, intricate lanterns (parols), some reaching up to 20 feet in diameter. These lanterns are illuminated by thousands of lights synchronized to music, creating mesmerizing patterns and vibrant displays. The Giant Lantern festival symbolizes hope and unity, drawing visitors from across the country to marvel at the craftsmanship and soak in the festive cheer.
Germany: Advent Calendars and Christmas Markets
Germany is the birthplace of some of the most cherished Christmas traditions, including Advent calendars and Christmas markets.
The German as with other markets in the world are adorned with twinkling lights and the scent of mulled wine, a delight to all of the senses. These enchanting markets, typically set up in charming town squares, are a feast for the senses. Twinkling lights illuminate wooden stalls filled with handcrafted ornaments and delicious treats. The air is filled with the scent of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and freshly baked gingerbread, creating a cozy, festive atmosphere - these markets are a joyful celebration of Christmas that captivates all the senses.
Finland: “Christmas Peace” and Sauna Time
In Finland, Christmas Eve begins with the official “Declaration of Christmas Peace,” which is read aloud on Christmas Eve in the city of Turku a tradition dating back to the 1300s.
The reading of the"Declaration of Christmas Peace" is broadcasted on television and radio, and it marks a moment of quiet reflection across the country as families prepare for the festivities.
Families then retreat to the warmth of a traditional sauna, symbolizing a fresh start and spiritual cleansing. Afterward, they enjoy hearty meals of ham, casseroles, and rice pudding, often leaving a bowl for Santa's reindeer.
Universal Themes of Christmas
At its core, Christmas is a celebration of togetherness, joy, and gratitude, themes that transcend cultural and geographical boundaries. While each country has its own unique customs and traditions, the underlying spirit of Christmas remains universal. Families across the world come together, sharing moments of love and connection, strengthening bonds that are central to the holiday season. One of the most consistent themes of Christmas is the gathering of family and friends around a festive table. Whether it's a hearty Christmas feast in Finland, a sumptuous dinner in Mexico, or a Christmas lunch in Australia, food plays a vital role in bringing people together. No matter where in the world Christmas is celebrated, these timeless traditions connect us all, reflecting the universal themes of togetherness, love, generosity, and gratitude. From shared meals to festive decorations, from the joy of gift-giving to the warmth of a carol sung with friends and family, Christmas is a global celebration of what truly matters: love, faith, and the joy of being together.
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This Christmas, let Artza be part of your holiday tradition. Celebrate the true meaning of Christmas with a Holy Land gift that reflects the love, faith, and generosity at the heart of the season. As you unwrap each treasure, remember that you are not only giving a gift, but also supporting artisans and communities in Israel, creating a ripple of kindness and connection that spans the globe.
