Around the World at Christmas: Exploring Unusual and Unique Holiday Traditions
As the holiday season approaches, many of us are familiar with the traditional Christmas customs of decorating a tree, exchanging gifts, and enjoying a festive meal with loved ones. However, around the world, there are countless unique and unusual Christmas traditions that may not be as well-known. From the terrifying Krampus in Austria to the unexpected popularity of KFC in Japan, the diversity of holiday celebrations is truly fascinating. In this blog, we will take a journey around the world to explore some of the most unusual and unique Christmas traditions, providing insight into the rich cultural tapestry of our global community. Whether you're a holiday enthusiast, cultural explorer, or simply looking for new ideas to spice up your Christmas celebrations, join us as we unravel the fascinating customs and rituals that make this time of year so special.
Austria: Krampus
Masked Figures in Traditional Costume During a Winter Festival
While British kids are well acquainted with Father Christmas, Santa Claus, or Saint Nick, Austrian children may encounter something a little more sinister. In Austria, a ghoulish creature called 'Krampus' roams the streets as the evil accomplice of St. Nicholas, in search of badly behaved children. During the month of December, terrifying masked figures can be seen scaring kids and adults alike with ghastly pranks. The annual Krampus parade in Vienna is a must-see for those intrigued by this holiday tradition.
Ukraine: A Cobweb Christmas
In Ukraine, it's customary to decorate Christmas trees with artificial spider webs. This tradition stems from a legend about a poor widow who couldn't afford to decorate her tree. According to the story, spiders took pity on her and spun webs all over the tree, which then turned into silver and gold on Christmas morning.
Japan: Colonel Sanders becomes Colonel Santa
A KFC Promotion in Japan in December
In Japan, whilst Christmas isn't generally celebrated, the season still isn't complete without a special meal from KFC. This unusual tradition stems from a successful marketing campaign by KFC in the 1970s. Today, families across Japan order KFC buckets months in advance to enjoy on Christmas day.
Iceland: The Yule Lads and the Christmas Cat
In Iceland, the holiday season is marked by the arrival of the Yule Lads, a group of mischievous characters who visit children on the 13 nights leading up to Christmas. Each lad has his own distinct personality and is known for playing pranks or leaving small gifts in shoes left out by children.
The children would be welcome for any new clothes as gifts, for Jólakötturinn, the Yule Cat is on the prowl! The Iceland Christmas Cat is a unique and somewhat eerie figure in Icelandic folklore. Unlike the jolly and benevolent image of Santa Claus, the Christmas Cat is depicted as a large and intimidating feline creature. According to tradition, the Christmas Cat is said to roam the countryside during the holiday season, particularly on Christmas Eve, and is known for its rather menacing behavior. The legend goes that the Christmas Cat is on the prowl, looking for those who have not received new clothes to wear before Christmas Eve. In Icelandic culture, it is believed that those who do not receive new clothing before Christmas Eve will be devoured by the Christmas Cat. This tradition has historically served as an incentive for people to work hard and ensure that everyone has new clothes for the holiday, emphasizing the importance of generosity and caring for others in the community.
Catalonia: The Pooping Log
In Catalonia, the Christmas tradition involves a unique character known as 'Caga Tió' or the pooping log. Families "feed" the log throughout December and on Christmas Eve, they beat it with sticks while singing a traditional song, which prompts the log to "poop" out small gifts and treats.
Wales: The Mari Lwyd
In Wales, the Mari Lwyd tradition involves a horse skull adorned with ribbons and bells, carried from house to house by a group of singers. The group engages in a battle of improvised rhymes with the residents of each home, and the tradition ends with the hosts inviting the singers in for food and drink.
Norway: Hiding Broomsticks
In Norway, it's customary to hide all the brooms in the house on Christmas Eve. This tradition dates back to the belief that witches and evil spirits would come out on Christmas Eve to steal brooms and fly around causing mischief.
Sweden: The Giant Christmas Goat
In Gävle, Sweden, a giant straw goat is erected in the town square every year as a Christmas tradition. However, the goat has become a target for vandals and arsonists, and it's now a game of sorts to see if the goat can survive until Christmas day without being destroyed.
Italy: La Befana the Christmas Witch
In Italy, the Christmas witch known as La Befana visits children on the night of January 5th, bringing gifts and sweets to those who have been good and coal to those who have been naughty. Families leave out food and wine for La Befana, and children wake up to find their stockings filled with treats.
These are just a few examples of the diverse and intriguing Christmas traditions found around the world. Whether it's the ghoulish Krampus in Austria or the mischievous Yule Lads in Iceland, each tradition adds its own unique flavor to the holiday season. If you're looking to add a touch of international intrigue to your own celebrations, consider incorporating some of these unusual customs into your festivities. After all, the magic of Christmas knows no bounds, and exploring different traditions can make the holiday season even more special.
