Did You Know? Holiday traditions vary widely across cultures and families, with each adding its own magic to the season. The traditions bring warmth, joy and a sense of togetherness to the holiday season, creating lasting memories for families and communities worldwide. Here are some popular holiday traditions:
Decorating the Christmas Tree (Worldwide)
Many families decorate a Christmas tree with ornaments, lights and a star or angel on top. Each ornament often carries its own story, and decorating the tree is a beloved tradition that brings families together.
Lighting the Menorah (Hanukkah)
During Hanukkah, a menorah with nine branches is lit, adding one candle each night to celebrate the eight-day “Festival of Lights.” This tradition is accompanied by prayers, songs and the spinning of the dreidel.
Advent Calendars (Germany and Worldwide)
Originating in Germany, Advent calendars have become popular worldwide. These calendars count down the days to Christmas, with small gifts or chocolates behind each door. Some families make personalized versions with daily activities or treats.
Midnight Mass (Roman Catholics Worldwide)
Many families attend midnight mass on Christmas Eve as a religious tradition. This special service celebrates the birth of Jesus and is often followed by a family meal or gathering.
Kissing Under the Mistletoe (Western Countries)
In Western cultures, it is traditional to kiss under a sprig of mistletoe. This greenery, symbolizing peace and love, is often hung in doorways during the holiday season.
Baking and Sharing Holiday Treats
Baking cookies, cakes and other holiday treats is a common tradition. In many cultures, families make special recipes and often share them with neighbors and friends or at holiday parties.
Feast of the Seven Fishes (Italian American)
In Italian American communities, Christmas Eve is celebrated with a seafood feast of seven dishes. Each fish represents a religious symbol, and the tradition is a vibrant part of Italian heritage.
Yule Log (Pagan and European Tradition)
The Yule log, traditionally a large wooden log burned in the fireplace, symbolizes warmth and hope for the new year. Some families have adopted this by serving a Yule log-shaped cake during holiday meals.
Sending Holiday Cards (Worldwide)
Sending cards to friends and family is a tradition in many cultures. Cards often include heartfelt messages or updates on the family, spreading joy and connection during the season.
Christmas Markets (Germany and Europe)
In Germany and other European countries, Christmas markets are a cherished tradition. These markets feature stalls with handmade gifts, holiday foods, mulled wine and festive decorations.
Posadas (Mexico)
In Mexico, “Las Posadas” is a nine-day celebration leading up to Christmas. Families and communities reenact Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, with singing, prayers and festive parties each evening.
Boxing Day (UK, Canada, Australia)
Celebrated the day after Christmas, Boxing Day is a time for giving to those in need. Families often spend time together, attend sporting events, or enjoy post-holiday sales.
Hiding the Christmas Pickle (German American Tradition)
Some families hide a pickle ornament in the Christmas tree, and the first child to find it on Christmas morning gets an extra gift or special treat.
Burning Sparklers (India – Diwali)
During Diwali, the Festival of Lights, families celebrate by lighting sparklers and decorating their homes with oil lamps. Although not a December holiday, Diwali is often celebrated close to the season.
New Year’s Day Countdown and Fireworks (Worldwide)
Many countries celebrate the New Year with fireworks, parties and countdowns. In some cultures, people observe traditions like wearing lucky colors, eating specific foods or making resolutions.
Lighting the Kinara (Kwanzaa)
During Kwanzaa, a seven-day festival celebrating African heritage, families light the kinara, which has seven candles representing the principles of Kwanzaa. Celebrations include songs, dances and a feast on December 31.