Families across the world are gearing up for the Christmas holiday season. Traditional celebrations vary among countries; here are some ways to incorporate international Christmas traditions into your holiday celebration.
Pere Noel in France
Children in France anxiously await a visit from Pere Noel. In preparation for the big event, they leave their shoes by the fireplace on Christmas Eve for Pere Noel to fill with presents. This is one international tradition that is easy to include into your annual celebration.
Christmas Rice from Brazil
There are no white Christmases in Brazil. In the southern hemisphere, Christmas falls in the middle of summer and Papai Noel typically dons his silk suit to keep cool. The warm weather doesn’t stop Brazilians from eating a traditional meal of turkey or ham. One of their side dishes is called “Christmas Rice”; it is rice cooked in milk and flavored with cinnamon. Surprise your family with a new side dish this year and add a little Brazilian flair to your Christmas dinner.
Paper Decorations from China
Even though China doesn’t have a large Christian population, Christmas is still celebrated there by many. Children, awaiting a visit from Dun Che Lao Ren, decorate their tree with homemade paper goods including flowers, chains, and lanterns. Your family can spend an afternoon making some traditional Chinese decorations for your tree; instructions can be found here: Paper Chains & “Chinese” Christmas Lantern Decoration.
Christmas Cake from India
Although India has a very diverse population, Christmas is a national holiday that is observed by all. In the southern regions of the country Christmas Cake is the dessert of choice. These cakes are usually prepared a week in advance. They are easy to make and would be a great addition to your Christmas meal.
Christmas in January for Russians
Christmas in January? Russia’s largely Orthodox population celebrates Christmas on January 7th as the Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar. The Russian Christmas dinner is meatless but features a dish called kutya. Kutya is the centerpiece of the dinner and is a blend of berries, nuts, and honey. On January 7 you and your family can make Kutya in honor of the Orthodox Russians who are celebrating their Christmas.
This is just a sampling of how your family can introduce Christmas traditions from around the world into your holiday celebration while learning about other cultures. Plan ahead for your New Year's Eve party with these ideas: International New Year's Customs.
Sources:
Santas.net Website
Brazilianfoodlove Blog
The North Pole
The Holiday Spot
Travelcentre
Melissa Hincha-Ownby - Melissa is a life-long writer. She started her freelance writing career in the 8th grade when the editor of her small town’s ...
