Christmas Traditions around the World

Italy

Most families have a nativity scene in their home. But baby Jesus isn’t added until Christmas Eve.

Ukraine

Christmas is celebrated January 7 because the Eastern Orthodox Church there uses the Julian calendar instead of the Gregorian calendar.

Australia

Because Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere, Christmas is celebrated during their summer break.

Ethiopia

A traditional Christmas food in Ethiopia is wat, a thick and spicy stew with meat, eggs, and vegetables. It’s eaten on flatbread.

United Kingdom

In the U.K., Christmas crackers are popular. These crackers are cardboard tubes loaded with a small amount of explosive and wrapped in colored foil that are pulled apart to reveal toys, jokes, and a paper crown inside.

Philippines

One of the most popular Christmas decorations in the Philippines is a parol. This is a bamboo pole or frame with a lighted star on top. It represents the star that guided the wise men to baby Jesus.

Colombia

Many people in Colombia decorate their balconies and windows with red and white candles and lights.

Mozambique

In Mozambique, Christians celebrate Christmas, but December 25th is officially called Family Day.

United States

In the Unites States, it’s common to decorate gingerbread men or gingerbread houses with icing and candy.