Christmas is a time of traditions, but what may seem commonplace in one culture can be entirely unique and fascinating in another. Around the world, diverse customs and rituals add richness and depth to the holiday season, offering insights into different cultures’ values and beliefs.
In Finland, for example, the sauna holds a place of honor in Christmas celebrations. It’s customary for families to gather for a relaxing sauna session on Christmas Eve before heading to church—a soothing prelude to the evening’s festivities. This tradition not only promotes relaxation but also underscores the importance of family and community bonds.
Meanwhile, in Japan, Christmas has taken on a decidedly unconventional twist, thanks in part to a successful marketing campaign by Kentucky Fried Chicken. In a country where only a small percentage of the population identifies as Christian, KFC has become synonymous with Christmas dinner, with families eagerly placing orders for buckets of fried chicken months in advance.
In Venezuela, residents of Caracas have a unique way of celebrating Christmas Eve: by roller skating to early morning mass. Known as “Nochebuena,” this joyful tradition sees the city’s streets come alive with skaters of all ages, gliding their way to church to attend the Misa de Gallo, or Rooster’s Mass.
Closer to home, in the United States, families gather around the dinner table on Christmas Eve to indulge in the Feast of the Seven Fishes—a traditional Italian-American meal consisting of—you guessed it—seven different seafood dishes. This delicious custom not only honors the Catholic tradition of abstaining from meat on Christmas Eve but also pays homage to the bounty of the sea.
These are just a few examples of the myriad ways in which Christmas is celebrated around the world. From roller skating in Caracas to feasting on fried chicken in Tokyo, each tradition offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of human culture and reminds us of the universal values of love, generosity, and togetherness that unite us all.