Christmas Traditions From Around The World

From Coach Dana Bosley

Christmas is a time of joy and celebration. Many countries have unique customs and traditions that help make this a happy season. I thought this might be interesting to you as it was to me, how Christmas is celebrated around the world.

In Mexico, starting nine days before Christmas day, children parade through their neighborhoods reenacting Joseph and Mary’s search for lodgings. Two children carrying figures of Joseph and Mary lead a procession to a designated house singing Christmas carols as they go. They knock on the door and ask for a room. At first they are refused, but then they are allowed in. A feast and celebration follow. Blindfolded children enjoy using a stick to try to break a piñata, a large brightly decorated paper figure hung from the ceiling and containing candy or small gifts.

In Ireland, a candle is lit and put in the window on Christmas Eve to welcome any weary travelers. 

In Scotland, on the night after Christmas, boxes of food are wrapped and given to the poor.

In Russia, some Orthodox Christians fast during a period before Christmas. Then, at the sight of the first star in the sky on Christmas Eve, a 12-course supper begins.

In Greece, children go from house to house on Christmas Eve, knocking on doors and singing songs that herald the arrival of the Christ Child.

In Ghana, West Africa, the houses are decorated with bright paper ornaments made by local families for the occasion. A tree in the courtyard of each house—often a mango, guava, or cashew tree—is also decorated.

In Ethiopia, members of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church celebrate Christmas on January 6th, following the ancient Roman calendar.

In southern India, Christians decorate their houses with clay lamps at night.

In the Philippines, Christmas carols start filling the airwaves as early as September.

In China, Christians build artificial trees—called “trees of light”—and decorate them with paper chains, flowers, lanterns, and other ornaments.

Americans decorate their houses with brightly colored lights. In some parts of the country they also line the streets with candles.

In many countries, nativity scenes are displayed to remind everyone of the birth of Jesus. In Italy, the family prays as the mother puts the figure of the Christ Child (Bambino) in the manger.

Throughout Norway, people ring in Christmas by ringing bells at 5 pm on Christmas Eve.

Where ever you are, and however you celebrate this joyous time of year, I pray you are richly blessed.