(CLO) From typical activities like taking cold baths in Ireland to decorating Christmas trees with straw goats in Sweden, each country has its own unique rituals to celebrate Christmas.
For many countries around the world, Christmas is not only the biggest holiday of the year, but also a time for families to maintain and create unique traditions. These traditions not only bring joy but also bond generations together, creating unforgettable memories.
Here are some notable traditions you can explore and experience this Christmas season.
Illustration: M&B
Cold shower in Ireland
One of the most popular Irish Christmas traditions is the annual Cold Water Festival, which is held to raise money for charity. Thousands of people, young and old, take part in the cold water swims dressed as Santa Claus or other funny costumes.
Despite the chill, attending the festival is seen as a great way to kick off the festive season with fun and community spirit. At beaches such as Fenit and Banna in County Kerry, families enjoy music and snacks after a swim.
Bizarre costumes in Switzerland
On Christmas Eve, people in the Swiss village of Kandersteg hold a unique parade, in which they dress up in bizarre costumes made of fur and carry large bells to ward off ghosts.
This tradition is believed to protect the village from evil spirits, while also providing an opportunity for the local community to join in a mystical and joyous celebration. It is a prime example of how Christmas is not just a time for family reunions, but also a time for communities to share unique cultural rituals.
Christmas 'book flood' in Iceland
Another popular Icelandic tradition is the “Jólabókaflóð” – or “Christmas Book Flood”. On Christmas Eve, Icelandic families exchange books and then gather together to read the new ones.
This is a time for families to not only relax but also create strong emotional connections. Reading together not only helps children develop language but is also a great way to create warm memories during the holiday season.
Goat Burning Festival in Sweden
This strange tradition dates back to 11th century Sweden, where people built giant straw goats for Christmas. In the town of Gävle, a 40-foot tall straw goat is built every year and burned at the end of the festive season.
However, this goat has also faced many challenges, having been destroyed 37 times since the tradition began in 1966. However, it is still an indispensable part of the Swedish people's festival activities, especially for those who love mysterious and colorful rituals.
Watch movies in the Philippines
In the Philippines, going to the movies on Christmas Day has become a family tradition. The Metro Manila Film Festival takes place during this time, and families head to the cinemas to enjoy Christmas movies filled with festive atmosphere.
This is not only an occasion for the whole family to gather but also an activity that helps everyone relax and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere in their own way.
Everyday Gift Giving in Norway
According to Norwegian tradition, children receive a small gift each day during Advent (the four weeks leading up to Christmas), leading up to Christmas Day. This helps children experience the joy gradually and avoids feeling overwhelmed by too many gifts on Christmas morning.
This is a tradition that helps children learn to appreciate each gift and builds excitement and anticipation for the official holiday.
Together in Venezuela
Venezuela has an interesting tradition on Christmas Eve: locals rollerblade to church for Mass. It's a great way to combine religious celebration with physical activity.
Children and adults join in this activity together, creating a fun, energetic atmosphere for the holiday. This is an interesting suggestion for families who want to combine creating festive memories and staying healthy.
Sauna in Finland
One of the most important Christmas traditions in Finland is the “Joulusauna” (Christmas Sauna). On Christmas Eve, Finnish families gather in the sauna, which is decorated with birch branches and lanterns, to relax together and share precious moments.
In particular, in Finland, people also prepare a small gift for the Saunatonttu elf. In addition, this is also the ideal time to visit Santa Claus's house in Rovaniemi, where visitors can feel the warm, friendly Christmas atmosphere.
Baking Speculoos cookies in Belgium
In Belgium, Christmas traditions often involve baking speculoos cookies on St. Nicholas Day on December 6. These delicious, crispy cookies are a staple in Belgian homes during the festive season.
Baking with your kids is not only a fun activity, but also an opportunity to create lasting memories and teach them the value of sharing and caring.
Bird Feeding in Finland
A meaningful tradition in Finland is for families to leave out bird feeders on Christmas morning. This is a way for people to connect with nature, foster kindness and create a living space in harmony with animals. This tradition also teaches children about kindness and sharing, values that are very important during the Christmas season.
La Befana in Italy
In Italy, a special tradition is the appearance of La Befana on January 5. The old witch flies on a broomstick and brings gifts to good children and coals to naughty children. Although La Befana is not part of the official Christmas celebrations, her appearance at the end of the festive season still creates a magical and colorful atmosphere.
Fried Chicken for Christmas Dinner in Japan
Thanks to a clever marketing campaign in the 1970s, KFC became a popular Christmas dinner in Japan. Families would order months in advance to share a full feast of fried chicken, with salad, cakes and side dishes.
Lighting Christmas candles in Ireland
In Ireland, families place a lit candle in their window on Christmas Eve as a symbolic greeting to Mary and Joseph, or any visitors passing by.
Symbols like these connect children to the stories and values behind Christmas. They are an effective way to introduce children to the idea of welcoming and supporting others.
Regardless of the tradition, the beauty of Christmas lies in the memories you and your loved ones create together. As child psychotherapist Dr. Sharie Coombes says, “It’s not the presents that children remember most—it’s the feeling of love and connection.”
Ngoc Anh (according to Scotsman, M&B)
Source: https://www.congluan.vn/nhung-truyen-thong-dang-chu-y-trong-dip-giang-sinh-post327216.html
Comment (0)