How Christmas is Celebrated Around the World

Christmas, originally a Christian tradition, has now taken root worldwide. While it began as a celebration of the birth of Jesus, today it often focuses on the values associated with the holiday—love, family, friendship, togetherness, gifts, and a touch of magic. But how is Christmas celebrated across the globe? Is it the same everywhere? And what about predominantly Muslim or Asian countries? Let’s take a look.

Germany

Christmas in Germany is often elaborate: beautifully decorated Christmas trees, festive homes, big presents, Christmas markets, family meals, and even visits to “praise the Christmas tree.” Of course, a bottle of something strong is often shared too!

United Kingdom

In the UK, traditions are deeply rooted. Family Christmas jumpers are a must, and gifts are opened on the morning of Christmas Day rather than on Christmas Eve. Historically, donations were collected and distributed on Boxing Day. German-style Christmas markets featuring gingerbread, mulled wine, and sausages have also become popular in recent years.

Ukraine

In Ukraine, a beautiful tradition involves remembering deceased family members by setting a place for them at the Christmas table. The main dish, “Kutya,” symbolizes hope, success, happiness, and peace. After the meal, a bowl of Kutya is left on the table with a spoon for each departed loved one—a touching gesture of remembrance.

United States

In the USA, Christmas is bigger in every sense. Stockings are hung on Christmas Eve for Santa to fill with small gifts, and Santa’s reindeer-drawn sleigh is an essential part of the holiday lore. Children often leave cookies and milk for Santa before heading to bed. The next morning, gifts under the tree take center stage. Family meals typically feature turkey, and malls are extravagantly decorated, sometimes even with ice-skating rinks. Festive parades with floats and candy canes bring holiday cheer to the streets.

China

Christmas doesn’t have deep roots in China, but thanks to increasing wealth and Western influence, it has gained some traction. Shopping centers are decorated with trees and ornaments, and some families even set up Christmas trees at home. Stockings may also make an appearance in certain areas.

Muslim Countries

In Muslim-majority countries, Christmas isn’t traditionally celebrated. However, decorations in malls and homes often resemble Christmas decor. In Turkey, for example, what looks like Christmas decorations is actually for New Year’s celebrations. Similarly, in Egypt, decorations in tourist areas cater primarily to visitors. However, in more modern communities like those in Cairo, Christmas celebrations, complete with Santa Claus and gifts, are becoming increasingly common.

How do you celebrate Christmas? Does your whole family come together, or are you more of a Christmas minimalist? Let us know your thoughts!

• → Christmas is too commercial
• → Christmas is family time
• → We always go on vacation
• → We don’t celebrate Christmas