How Different Countries Celebrate Christmas

As the holiday season approaches, people everywhere are getting ready to embrace the most wonderful time of the year. Living in a world rich with diverse cultures and traditions means there are countless ways to celebrate this special occasion. Today, we invite you to join us on a journey around the globe to discover how different nations celebrate Christmas in their own distinctive and heartwarming ways!

1. Finland
   In Finland, Christmas morning begins with a warm and comforting bowl of rice porridge called riisipuuro. This delightful dish is made by combining rice and milk until creamy, then topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of butter. What sets this tradition apart is the hidden almond tucked under the porridge. Whoever finds the almond in their pot is believed to be having good luck for the coming year!
2. New Zealand
   While snow blankets the ground in many parts of the world, people in New Zealand celebrate Christmastime during the summer holidays, fondly known as “Kiwi Christmas”. Instead of sipping on hot cocoa to slip the cold away, locals are out for beach days, camping adventures, grilling barbecues, and decorating the Pōhutukawa tree which bursts into vibrant red blooms during December.
3. Philippines
   If you think you’ve started preparing for Christmas early, the Philippines takes this holiday season to a whole new level. Celebrations begin as early as September (the first of ‘Ber’ months) and often continue beyond New Year’s Day. Here, streets come alive with patrol lanterns and vibrant light displays, especially during the Giant Lantern Festival in San Fernando.

What special family traditions do you cherish on Christmas? Share your heartwarming stories in the comments below, aDORÉbles!