As we reach the beginning of December, many of us begin to look forward to holiday traditions. Whether you’re Christian or not, with school vacations going on and an atmosphere of celebration all around, most of us have something we look forward to during this time. There’s something powerful in knowing that all over the world there are people coming together to enjoy a season of joy and love.
This week we will be discussing international holiday traditions, things people do to celebrate this exciting time of the year. We’d like to invite you to consider incorporating one of these (or something similar) into your own celebrations. Perhaps it will be just what you and your loved ones need to bring peace and joy back into the season.
Phillipines: Ligligan Parul
Each year in San Fernando, the city lights up with beautiful lanterns (called parols) that symbolize the Star of Bethlehem. The sight is gorgeous and has labeled San Fernando as the “Christmas Capital of the World”.
England: The Devil’s Knell
If you happen to be in England at midnight on Christmas Eve, you may hear the sound of church bells beginning to ring. According to folk tales of the area, the Devil died when Christ was born. As such, the ringing of church bells is meant to celebrate the Devil’s death.
Japan: KFC Dinner
Though Christmas is not recognized as a national holiday in Japan, they still have their own celebration. Since 1974, when a campaign by the company suggested “Kentucky for Christmas” many Japanese families continue to enjoy Kentucky Fried Chicken for Christmas Dinner. Some even end up waiting hours to get their KFC fix.
Iceland: Jolabokaflod
A personal favorite of mine, every year on Christmas Eve Icelanders receive a book to spend all night reading in anticipation for Christmas morning. This tradition is called Jolabokaflod, a title which roughly translates to “Christmas book flood”. This began during World War II when paper was one of few things that were not heavily rationed. As such, many people gave each other books as gifts. To this day, the taste for reading has yet to diminish.
Venezuela: Roller Skates
In Caracas Venezuela, the majority of the population attends church in the morning. Not the most unique thing, until you realize that instead of walking, they all use roller skates. No one
really know how this tradition got started, but it is so prevalent that many roads are closed to cars so that residents can safely roller skate to and from their destination.
South Africa: Braaing
Many traditions in South Africa vary by region. However, many residents celebrate the season by getting together for a braaing, or cookout. Some cuisine that is regularly involved includes marinated steaks, boerewors sausages, and malva pudding with custard. They will also often decorate Christmas trees using baubles and hand-beaded African ornaments.
Norway: Hiding Brooms
This tradition stems from a time when it was believed that witches and other supernatural beings would ride brooms on Christmas Eve night. To this day, Norwegians will hide their brooms to ensure that they are not stolen.
Portugal and Brazil: Midnight Festivities
Every year, Brazilian and Portuguese families celebrate Christmas Eve with a late dinner, followed by a midnight celebration filled with gifts, toasts, and fireworks. Many also attend midnight mass where they can meet up with neighbors and friends to celebrate the holiday. It’s almost like an early New Year!