Christmas is a time of joy, peace, and celebration for many people around the world. But did you know that there are different ways to celebrate this festive season in different countries and cultures? In this article, we will explore some of the most interesting and unique Christmas traditions from around the world, from Sweden to Japan, from Australia to the Philippines.

Sweden: The Yule Goat

One of the oldest and most iconic symbols of Christmas in Sweden is the Yule Goat, a straw goat that dates back to ancient pagan festivals. The Yule Goat is usually placed under the Christmas tree or outside the house as a decoration. However, in the city of Gävle, there is a tradition of making a giant straw goat, more than 42 feet high, 23 feet wide, and weighing 3.6 tons. The Gävle Goat is erected every year on the first Sunday of Advent and attracts thousands of visitors. Unfortunately, it also attracts vandals who try to burn it down. Since 1966, the goat has been destroyed 37 times, the last time in 2016.

Japan: Kentucky Fried Chicken

Although Christmas is not a national holiday in Japan, and only about one percent of the population is Christian, many Japanese people have adopted a peculiar way to celebrate it: eating Kentucky Fried Chicken. This tradition started in 1974, when the fast-food chain launched a successful marketing campaign called “Kentucky for Christmas!” The campaign appealed to the Japanese people who wanted to enjoy a Western-style feast for the occasion. Ever since, KFC has become so popular for Christmas that some people order their buckets months in advance or wait in long lines to get their fried chicken.

Australia: Barbecue on the Beach

Christmas in Australia coincides with the beginning of summer, so many Australians celebrate it outdoors, enjoying the sun and the beach. Instead of a traditional turkey dinner, many families have a cold Christmas dinner or a barbecue with seafood. It is common to see fish markets crowded on Christmas morning, as people buy fresh prawns, oysters, lobsters, and crabs. On Boxing Day, the day after Christmas, many Australians gather with friends and head to the beach again to have another barbecue and watch the cricket match between Australia and England.

Philippines: The Giant Lantern Festival

The Philippines is known for having the longest Christmas season in the world, starting as early as September and ending in January. One of the most spectacular events during this time is the Giant Lantern Festival, held every year in the city of San Fernando. The festival features dazzling lanterns, called parols, that symbolize the Star of Bethlehem. Each lantern consists of thousands of spinning lights that illuminate the night sky. The parols are made by local artisans who compete for the best design. The festival attracts thousands of spectators who marvel at the colorful display.

These are just some of the many Christmas traditions from around the world that show how diverse and rich this celebration is. Whether you prefer a cozy fire or a sunny beach, a roasted turkey or a fried chicken, a straw goat or a star lantern, we hope you have a wonderful Christmas and a happy new year!