Unusual Christmas traditions from various parts of the world

In Europe, we are used to Christmas being a holiday held in a winter setting. Many people eagerly await the snowfall, as it accentuates the festive atmosphere. Despite cultural differences, common elements like decorating the Christmas tree and enjoying a Christmas Eve feast are widespread. However, in other parts of the world where Christmas is celebrated, the traditions can be quite distinct, and the customs there are quite different from what most of us are familiar with.

Christmas in Australia: decorating homes and celebrating on the beach

In Australia, Christmas occurs in the middle of summer, significantly influencing the holiday's celebration. With no snowfall, Australians often spend their holidays outdoors or at the beach. Yet, the warm weather doesn't dampen the festive spirit. From September, stores begin selling Christmas decorations, including traditional Australian hand-painted baubles and unique ornaments shaped like crocodiles or koalas.

The holiday season in Australia, as in other parts of the world, holds religious and traditional significance, even for non-believers. City streets and landmarks start being decorated from November. In shopping malls, Santa, surrounded by snowflakes and helpers, gives gifts to children under Christmas trees richly decorated with baubles. As the holiday approaches, the crowds grow.

Australians also focus on outdoor holiday decor, with inflatable decorations and lights adorning gardens and property entrances. On Christmas Day, a festive lunch featuring turkey, ham, and sweet plum pudding is common, and this is also when gifts, placed in original Christmas socks or pillowcases, are unwrapped. Children leave cookies and milk for Santa to thank him for the gifts. The following day, Boxing Day, is marked by sales and promotions in shopping malls, with Australians taking advantage of discounted shopping.

Christmas in the United States: turkey roasts and elves' arrival

In the United States, Christmas is deeply embedded in the country's tradition. The customs, though not exotic, are intriguing to those from different parts of the world. The festive atmosphere begins to build in early December, following Thanksgiving. This period marks the beginning of enthusiastic home decoration across America. Americans are not minimalists when it comes to holiday decorating.

One of the first and most important decorations in American homes is the Christmas tree, typically purchased in early December and adorned with numerous ornaments. Alongside classic baubles, there are often humorous additions, such as special Christmas animal ornaments, reflecting the inclusive nature of the celebration for all family members, including pets.

In the United States, a favorite holiday tradition among children and adults is the game involving a hidden elf in the house. According to legend, each child receives a visit from Santa Claus' envoy at the beginning of December. The elf's role is to observe the children, ensuring they behave well before Christmas.

Parents get creative, hiding elf figurines in various places like the Christmas tree, kitchen, and children's rooms, often in candy packages or spots where children will find them upon waking, bringing delight. However, there's a rule: the elf must not be touched, or it may not return to the North Pole.

Christmas traditions in Brazil: masses under palm trees and artificial snow decorations.

Brazil, a culturally diverse country, celebrates the holidays in unique ways. December brings intense heat and school vacations, creating opportunities for family reunions and travel.

In Southern Brazil, where European immigrants settled, the influence of Portuguese, Italian, German, Austrian, Polish, and Ukrainian cultures is evident. The holidays are family-oriented and religious, with traditions like dressing mangers, singing carols, and night masses, known as "missa do galo," lasting until dawn. Although traditional Christmas trees are often replaced with local conifers like araucarias or potted banana trees, they hang classic hand-painted baubles and other ornaments.

The "papai noel," or Brazilian Santa Claus, is a significant figure, bringing small gifts to children. The Christmas feast includes churrasco or roast beef, turkey, other poultry dishes, dried fish balls, and sweet desserts like rabanada, made from white bread dipped in milk and sugar or honey with cinnamon.

Celebrating Christmas under palm trees or in other exotic locations is a unique experience. However, despite their many differences, one can also find familiar elements from our family homes. Dressing the Christmas tree with holiday decorations, having a festive dinner and giving gifts are familiar no matter where you celebrate.