Written By: Ally Taynton, Staff Writer
CULTURE: Although the general idea and celebration of Christmas are similar throughout the world, some unique differences make other countries stand out.
There are many different ways to celebrate Christmas. The most common celebration is gathering with family and friends to eat a good meal and exchange gifts. Some countries may add their twist to the holiday. They may do so that may seem strange to us, adding to the unique cultures and traditions around the world. Some countries even celebrate a different day than December 25. Here are some countries and what they do for Christmas.
Germany
In Germany, they have multiple days of Christmas. On December 5th, children may clean their shoes and set them outside to be filled with small gifts. Overnight, they are filled with goodies that are found early morning December 6th. This little tradition takes place on the holiday, Saint Nicholas Day. Unlike in the U.S., in Germany, presents are opened on Christmas Eve rather than waiting for the 25th. Before opening presents, families spend the day cleaning, decorating, and preparing a meal. Once night comes they gather around the tree. According to their traditions, the ‘Christkind’ (Christ child) delivers presents while the children are waiting in a separate room. When the presents are ready, a bell is rung then the children enter the room to sing Christmas carols before opening presents.
Australia
In Australia, Christmas occurs at the beginning of the summer holidays. Since it is so hot, there are many differences in their Christmas compared to a lot of other countries. First, families may choose to have barbecues at the beach or a camping trip during Christmas. Second, their image of Santa is much different than ours because he can’t wear the soft outfit he needs for the low temperatures. In Australia, Santa also uses kangaroos to give his reindeer a break. Instead of milk and cookies, Santa gets some cake and beer. Although the beer is non-alcoholic Santa can continue to drive his sleigh through the night.
Japan
In Japan, Christmas isn’t celebrated as a religious holiday, but they do have a few fun traditions they do during the 24th and 25th. Christmas Eve in Japan consists more of a couple’s day. Couples will reserve a table at a nice restaurant and go on walks together, looking at all the Christmas lights. Another activity that is common during Christmas is going to Tokyo’s Disneyland. There are amazing parades and breathtaking decoration displays. For some odd reason, it has become more and more popular to have KFC during Christmas in Japan. It is the busiest time of year for the restaurant. Since Christmas is right before the New Year, Christmas decorations are taken down right after the celebrations are over and new ones are set up on the 26th.
Christmas around the world includes many different traditions and activities. Although some may seem strange, they have been a tradition and just like in America, have been passed down through generations.