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  Dutch version
Here you will find descriptions of Christmas traditions in various countries
In the Netherlands we have many customs and rituals around Christmas that return every year. In other countries they also have their own customs during the most pleasant time of the year.
Why is that?
Our Christmas traditions are what make us love Christmas so much.
Because traditions are benchmarks. And if they are traditions that make you happy, they can have a major positive effect on yourself and how you experience Christmas.
You have National, Regional and family traditions. The latter are mainly for you and your family:
* Traditions provide a sense of identity and strengthen the bond in a family or community. It's the feeling of 'these are the things we always do and they make us happy'.
* Traditions provide a feeling of safety and security. Whatever happens in a family - especially when it comes to major changes such as a move or sad events such as the death of someone - it is nice to know that there is always hot chocolate and currant bread with you on Christmas Eve. Even though grandma may no longer be there.
* Traditions connect generations. It is nice to continue to honor a tradition that has been in your family for generations. This way you create a link with your entire family line. But of course that is only possible if it is a nice tradition and does not feel like an annoying obligation.
* Traditions show what you want to live for your children. Read aloud, play games, eat delicious food, go outside, express your appreciation to each other. It gets a little more shine if you also do this at Christmas.
* Traditions create lasting memories. With your traditions you create your own memories and those of your children.
And the great thing about traditions is that you use them consciously. Even if your tradition is that you have no traditions - then that is a conscious choice. You clearly choose what you find important and how you want to celebrate Christmas.
If you don't have any traditions yet, but you want them, or you want to add new traditions for you and your family. Or stop some older 'annoying or boring' traditions, that is also possible.
The big challenge is how to choose your traditions. You have all kinds of pleasant and less pleasant memories from your own youth. Your partner has it too. And now you are a family together and you will create your own traditions together. What is important is to let go of a lot of the old obligatory (annoying or boring) and opt for fun and convenience. If the priority is that it should be fun and that you do not have to prepare endlessly, your traditions have a good chance of success.
We will tell you exactly what Christmas traditions are in the Netherlands and what Christmas traditions worldwide look like!
And so you can, if you want, create your own Christmas traditions.
Use the Links in this menu to jump to one of the countries.
Christmas traditions in The Netherlands.
We have placed them in order from the beginning of Advent to Christmas
Burning Advent candles
In the list of oldest Christmas traditions, it is in third place.
In many living rooms, an extra candle is always lit on the four Sundays before Christmas.
With these 4 Advent candles, Christians count down until Christmas and the birth of baby Jesus.
Advent candles are usually placed in special Advent candlesticks. An Advent wreath is also used, a flower arrangement containing candles.
Sometimes people also use a set of 24 candles to count down from December 1st until Christmas, so they light a new candle every day
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Open Advent Calendar
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Many Dutch people like their children to open a box of an Advent calendar every day from December 1 to 24. Most people have an Advent calendar from which the children can get a chocolate or small gift every day.
This is still a fairly young tradition |
Send Christmas cards to family and friends
One of the oldest Christmas traditions in the Netherlands is also to send Christmas cards to family and friends. This is number 5 on the list of the oldest Christmas traditions.
With a Christmas card you wish someone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Christmas cards used to be made one by one by hand, but nowadays you can make your own Christmas card online. For example, add your own photo, choose nice figures and put your own Christmas wishes on it.
 
Decorated Christmas tree in the living room
 
Another one of our Christmas traditions that should not be missed is of course the Christmas tree! The Dutch can't wait to decorate their Christmas tree again after Sinterklaas evening and they prefer to enjoy a decorated tree in November. Most Dutch people opt for a real Christmas tree or an artificial Christmas tree, but alternative Christmas trees made of wood, for example, have also been very popular in recent years.
Songs and stories
 
Singing Christmas carols in the evening at the illuminated Christmas tree and either reading the Christmas story or "It was the Night before Christmas" or fairy tales at the illuminated Christmas tree
Christmas lights and decorations in and around the house
The Dutch can't start early enough: Christmas lights in the garden and in the house! In the dark winter months we find it very pleasant to create some light ourselves.
 
Some streets even go all out, creating real Christmas shows!
 
The addition of decorations is also happening more and more in this century.
 
Not really a tradition yet: Christmas tradition: getting a Christmas gift!
In the Netherlands, receiving a Christmas bonus from your employer is still an exception.
But most Dutch companies do give their employees a Christmas gift! Most Christmas packages are filled with delicious snacks for the Christmas holidays.
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Absolutely great is a Family Christmas package that contains something for everyone, such as a fun game. The Christmas season is a time of fun together, with a game, and something delicious, what more could you want? And if there is something that you can use regularly, such as this package, the nostalgia wooden crate that you can use for all kinds of things. Decorative in any interior.
The Dutch really look forward to their annual Christmas gift. |
Visiting Christmas markets
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This is gradually becoming a tradition for many Dutch people, visiting of 1 or more Christmas markets, close to home or further away and sometimes even in other countries. |
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To a Christmas (night) service or the Christmas mass
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Probably the oldest tradition at Christmas is of course going to church! During the service on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, the birth of the baby Jesus is told. The Christmas Eve service and the service on Christmas Day are often busy, so make sure you are on time! |
Christmas gifts under the tree as a Christmas tradition
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In the Netherlands, most children receive their gifts on Sinterklaas Eve, That's why this happens much less at Christmas.
We are increasingly seeing a small adjustment. More and more parents give their children one more present under the tree on the morning of Christmas Day (December 25). We like to surprise our loved ones with Christmas gifts on December 25 or 26. ! Christmas gifts look very nice under a beautifully decorated tree. Wrap your Christmas gifts beautifully for an extra festive touch! |
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Another young tradition: Having Christmas breakfast together
| One of the Christmas traditions in the Netherlands that should not be missing from this list is the Christmas breakfast or Christmas brunch! In the Netherlands we like to have an extensive breakfast or brunch together at Christmas, with Christmas stollen, croissants, small rolls, boiled eggs, Christmas turban and butter in the shape of Santa Claus! |
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Christmas Dinner / Gourmet Food
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In the list of oldest Christmas traditions, this is probably in 4th place.
In the Netherlands, on Christmas Day you of course have an extensive Christmas dinner with chicken, duck or game and other special Christmas delicacies. Others think it's the ultimate Christmas if you go gourmet! |
Second Christmas Day / Boxing Day
| You regularly read 'First Christmas Day' in other traditions, which brings us straight to the second oldest tradition: In the Netherlands we have more than 1 Christmas Day. We have 2: First Christmas Day and Second Christmas Day (England: Boxing Day)(25 and 26 December). We used to have even more. |
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Before the rise of Christianity, the pagan Germans already celebrated several holidays in December. The Yule Festival, also known as the Midwinter Festival, lasted twelve days. In the first centuries after Christ, many pagan holidays had to make way for Christian (Catholic *) celebrations. Instead of Yule, there was a 12-day Christmas period between December 25 and January 6.
The date of December 25 as the birth date of Jesus was only chosen in the fourth century AD to provide a counterbalance to the pagan midwinter festival.
In the year 813, the 12-day Christmas season was replaced by four Christmas days in the Roman Catholic Church. You were not allowed to work on these days, because that would bring bad luck.
But unfortunately, the Fourth Day of Christmas did not last long and the Third Day of Christmas also died in the Netherlands in 1773, when the Dutch government decided to abolish the holiday. Which also happened in other European countries around this time.
Probably because it was better for the economy if people started working again after two days off.
(So first 12, then four, then 3, and now 2) |
Outside on Second Christmas Day / Boxing Day
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Most Dutch people mainly celebrate Christmas on the First Christmas Day, so the Second Chritmas Day / Boxing Day is the ideal time to do other things together as a family or with friends, preferably outdoors.
For example, the Christmas circus used to be very popular, or other attractions such as skating on natural ice.
Nowadays, visiting an attraction park in the Christmas spirit scores highly among families with young children and visiting a residential boulevard scores highly among newlyweds, often in combination with a visit to a restaurant. |
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Christmas traditions in Belgium.
In Belgium Christmas is usually celebrated within the family, on December 24 in the evening or on December 25 during the day. The invitees bring packages for each other, or lots are drawn in advance (or divided, see drawing lots) for whom they should buy a gift. Giving gifts to children is always a very special occasion for them.
The Christmas menu often includes large pieces of meat such as pheasant, with a variety of vegetables and potato croquettes and similar items. But the typical Belgian festive meal remains: vol-au-vent, vegetable wreath (carrots, peas, salsify, chicory) with croquettes and roasts, and a Christmas log or a sponge cake. |
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Practicing Christians attend midnight mass on December 24, traditionally at midnight, but often earlier in the evening so that the children can be part of the Christmas play.
In Belgium there is the Epiphany king game, where a cake is baked with a bean inside. Whoever happens to get the piece of cake with the bean becomes king for one day. The lucky person who found the bean got to put a paper crown on their head and take charge of the party. This ritual is depicted in a painting by Jan Steen. |
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Christmas traditions in Luxembourg.
Luxembourg, a small European country rich in culture and tradition, celebrates Christmas in its own special way. Christmas in Luxembourg is a mix of traditional Christian elements and local customs, creating a unique and memorable holiday season.
The celebration of Christmas begins with Advent, when families decorate their homes and cities take on a festive look. Advent calendars and candles are popular. Christmas decorations are important, including Christmas trees and lights. Christmas markets offer crafts, traditional food and drinks, creating a festive atmosphere.
In Luxembourg, a variety of meat and fish dishes, as well as traditional desserts such as 'Stollen' and 'Bûche de Noël' are common on the Christmas table. Exchanging gifts is common, especially among children. Santa Claus or 'Kleeschen' brings presents on Christmas Eve. |
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Nicholas Day is celebrated on December 6, when children receive gifts and sweets. A particularly traditional dish often served at the Christmas market is Gromperekichelcher, potato patties that are popular throughout the country.
Christmas Eve in Luxembourg is family oriented, with a big dinner and the opening of presents. December 26 is also a holiday when families gather and spend time together.
Many Luxembourgers attend church services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, celebrating the religious significance of the holiday. |
Christmas in Luxembourg is a time to emphasize the importance of family, religious traditions and community, bringing joy and warmth to locals and visitors alike. The Christmas season in Luxembourg reflects the rich cultural heritage of this small country and offers special moments to enjoy and remember.
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Christmas traditions in Germany.
In Germany there are two Christmas days, December 25 and 26. For many, December 24, Christmas Eve, is divided into a hectic morning and a festive part in the evening. If Christmas Eve falls on a working day, shops are closed after noon and there is a lot of activity in the afternoon as last-minute gifts or food for the festive meal are bought. Then it's time to decorate the Christmas tree with Christmas lights and colorful balls, wrap presents and prepare food.
At the beginning of the evening the families come together. Some maintain traditions, such as singing together or making music. After the meal, the giving of presents follows: Then the packages under the Christmas tree can be unpacked. Sometimes the Weihnachtsmann comes along. It used to look like Saint Nicholas, but since the 1970s it has increasingly looked like Santa Claus.
Children have already written a wish list weeks before Christmas and are eagerly waiting to see whether their wishes will come true.
Young people who have returned to their hometown for the holidays often go out late in the evening to meet old friends. Many also go to a Christmas Eve service / Christmas Eve Mass. |
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In central and northern Germany, Mother Holle looks between December 23 and January 5 to see whether people were busy or lazy that year. In the other areas people know Perchta, a comparable figure. Perchta rides as leader of the Wild Hunt from the winter solstice until January 6. The Perchtenlauf still exists in several areas.
The Krampus is found in the Alpine region and servant Ruprecht is Sinterklaas' helper in central and northern Germany. |
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The Sternsinger also pass by the houses during the Christmas period.
Christmas pyramids are a traditional Christmas decoration (according to some, the predecessors of the Christmas tree). They range from small (for the home) to very large (shopping centers and Christmas markets).
And Christmas markets are organized in many towns and villages. |
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Christmas traditions in Austria.
| Numerous Christmas markets, or rather Christkindlmarkts, are organized every year in Austria. Everywhere in the country you will find smaller and larger collections of stalls selling mulled wine, local dishes and souvenirs. Christmas carols are also often sung and there is entertainment for young and old. |
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Anyone who has ever been on holiday in Austria in December knows that there are nativity scenes everywhere. They come in many shapes and sizes, from oriental-inspired nativity scenes to Tyrolean mangers that give Jesus a birthplace in a Tyrolean stable. The inhabitants of Austrian villages often make the nativity scenes themselves and they are passed on from generation to generation. |
| Many Austrian families bake cookies together in the run-up to Christmas. A sweet delicacy that is very popular in Tyrol is 'Zelten'. This is a type of Christmas bread consisting of bread dough, dried fruits and nuts. What is also frequently made during this period is 'Lebkuchen'. This is a type of spiced, stuffed gingerbread that has been around since the Middle Ages. |
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In some places in Austria, 'knockers' come along in the run-up to Christmas. Men dressed as shepherds or innkeepers go from house to house to repeat Joseph and Mary's quest with songs. The belief behind this tradition is that the evil nature spirits are driven away. The well-known Krampus, the Austrian companion of Sinterklaas, also noisily walks through the streets in December to drive away evil spirits.
Austria is also trying to avert disaster in another way. During the four 'Rauchnächte', on December 21, December 25, December 31 and January 5, the family walks through the house with a pan full of incense. This tradition is all about protecting the home against disaster and disease. |
| If there is one Christmas carol that is sung a lot in Austria, it is 'Silent night, holy night'. This song was first sung in Salzburg in 1818 and has now been translated into more than 40 languages. Since 2011, 'Silent Night' has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List. |
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In many places in Austria people do not believe that Santa Claus brings the presents, but that Christkindl, the child of Christmas, is responsible for this. On Christmas Eve he enters the houses through the keyhole to leave the presents under the tree. Another tradition is that children from all over the world can send a letter to Postamt Christkindl in Steyr, Öberosterreich. Since 1950, more than 70 million wish lists and drawings have been sent to this address. The letter writers also receive an answer, in the form of a letter with a special Christmas stamp. |
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Christmas traditions in Switzerland.
Known for its diverse culture and languages, Switzerland celebrates Christmas with unique traditions and customs. Christmas in Switzerland reflects the multicultural nature of the country, with German, French, Italian and Romance cultures influencing the celebration of the holidays.
The celebration of Christmas in Switzerland begins with Advent. Houses, shops and city streets are decorated with Christmas lights and decorations. Special attention is paid to Advent calendars and candles. Christmas markets are popular in Switzerland and offer local crafts, traditional food and drinks and create a festive atmosphere. |
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Traditional Christmas dishes vary from region to region, but often include fondue, raclette, gingerbread and specific Christmas desserts such as 'Lebkuchen' and 'Christstollen'. Gift exchanges usually take place on Christmas Eve, when families gather and spend time together.
At the beginning of December, 'Samichlaus' (Swiss Santa Claus) visits the children with his helper 'Schmutzli', with sweets and presents. Geneva celebrates Candlemas in early December, a unique local tradition. |
Christmas Eve in Switzerland is traditionally family oriented, with a big dinner and gift giving. The festive period continues until the New Year celebrations, often accompanied by spectacular fireworks and celebrations.
Christmas in Switzerland is a time to emphasize the importance of family, religious traditions and community. Christmas in this country reflects the cultural diversity of Switzerland and offers both locals and visitors the opportunity to enjoy a mix of different traditions that have developed over the centuries.
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Christmas traditions in France.
Christmas is called Noël in France. It is mainly celebrated religiously, although secular celebration also occurs. Catholics in France give gifts in the name of Christ during Christmas. People attend mass in the church and nativity scenes are set up.
Père Noël (or Papa Noël) can be translated as Father Christmas. Other names are Paire Nadau (Occitan), Tad Nedeleg (Breton), Bizarzuri or Aita Noel (Basque) and Babbu Natale (Corsican).
Mère Noël (Mother Christmas) is the wife of Père Noël and the lutins help Père Noël.
The lutin (French) is a type of gnome, the creature appears in folklore and fairy tales. Female lutins are called lutins.
A lutin is similar to other house spirits. In translations, the name lutin is often used as elf, brownie, fairy, gnome, kobold, goblin, hobgoblin, imp, leprechaun, piskie, puck or sprite.
Children put their shoes by the fireplace or under the Christmas tree. |
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The eight reindeer are called in French Tornade, Danseur, Furie, Fringant, Comète, Cupidon, Éclair and Tonnerre.
The later introduced ninth reindeer is called Rudolphe.
Children write letters to Père Noël. In 1962, Jacques Marette, minister of PTT, opened a post box for Père Noël in Hôtel des Postes. In 1967 it was moved to Libourne by Robert Boulin. The first response to the writers of the letters was written by Françoise Dolto. In 2007, Père Noël received more than 1.6 million letters, including 1,430,000 letters and 181,200 emails (via the La Poste group internet portal and the dedicated website for Père Noël by La Poste)
Children put their shoes by the fireplace or under the Christmas tree.
France has traditional Christmas dishes, such as Büche de Noël (Christmas log) and treize desserts.
Réveillon is the name for Christmas dinner, it can be translated as wake (it is customary to stay awake until after 12 o'clock at night).
Les Treize desserts are part of the Provencal Christmas dinner. This Christmas dinner ends with thirteen desserts, which refers to Jesus and his twelve apostles.
The first four desserts consist of les quatre mendiants:
"Dried figs for the Franciscans
"Almonds for the Carmelites
"Walnuts for the Augustinians
"Raisins for the Dominicans.
This fruit is reminiscent of the habit colors of the four monastic orders of mendicants.
After this, candied fruit such as apple, dates, mandarin, melon, pear, orange or white grapes.
Also a selection of confiseries and pâtisseries such as calissons d'Aix (sweets made from glazed almonds and candied fruit), gibassié (sweet bread with orange blossom water), nougat or pâte de coings (quince paste).
When the tangerine is eaten, a wish can be made and it will come true in the following year. The gibassié is broken according to Jesus' example. If this were to be cut it would portend bankruptcy the following year. |
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Christmas Traditions in English-speaking Countries.
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Christmas in English-speaking countries such as England, Canada, Australia, etc. is often celebrated on Christmas Eve with the special Christmas dinner, turkey and Christmas pudding. A Christmas pudding is a pudding that consists largely of raisins.
Another tradition is the singing and performance of Christmas carols (plays with a Christmas theme).
Furthermore, Santa Claus plays a major role. Although in England that is often Father Christmas.
A visit is also made to the church. According to a survey published in the Daily Telegraph in December 2005, more than 4 in 10 Britons plan to go to church for Christmas in 2005. Compared to previous years, this would represent a record number. The research also showed that of adults who do not consider themselves to be Christian, 22 percent still planned to go to church.
Boxing Day is called Boxing Day by the English. |
Australians decorate their Christmas trees, enjoy carols and some eat a traditional British-style Christmas lunch or roast a turkey and all the trimmings. The big difference is that they do this in Australia. do it in the lovely sun! Because it is in Australia December is the middle of summer.
Others enjoy having a Christmas lunch with a barbecue in the garden or organizing a large picnic on the beach. Although they eat differently at Christmas, they do decorate Christmas trees and give Christmas presents.
Pay attention when you pack your suitcase: traditionally they wear their swimwear with a Santa hat on the beach at Christmas! Even Santa Claus wears less warm clothes and exchanges his reindeer for kangaroos, also known as the six white boomers. Sometimes Santa Claus even comes to the beach in shorts to greet the children and bring presents! |
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Christmas traditions in Denmark.
In Denmark, Christmas Eve is traditionally celebrated with a dinner of goose or duck, and dishes such as brunede kartofler (caramelized potatoes). The dinner ends with rice pudding with chopped almonds and warm cherry sauce (Riz à l'Amande, corrupted by the Danes to something that sounds like "risalamang").
It is tradition to leave a whole almond in the pudding, the person who finds the whole almond gets a prize, a present. There are several tricks to ensure that children always find a whole almond, and therefore receive a prize. |
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After dinner there is dancing around the Christmas tree while Christmas carols are sung. Then it's time to unwrap the presents under the Christmas tree.
Earlier on Christmas Eve, Danes who practice a religion go to church.
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On Christmas Day and Boxing Day, many Danes visit family and eat a Christmas lunch ("julefrokost") including marinated herring together with a glass of akvavit and beer.
In Denmark the gifts come from the Julemanden (Danish Santa Claus). He lives in Greenland, always carries a big bag and has reindeer at his disposal.
However, the presents are usually delivered to the house by the nisser, who were promoted to the helpers of the Julemanden around the beginning of the 19th century. These small bearded creatures with pointed hats (which we in the Netherlands would quickly call gnomes) were actually the former household gods in Danish and Old Norse folk beliefs.
Lucia is also celebrated in Denmark. |
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Christmas traditions in Norway.
Norway has many of the same traditions as Denmark and Sweden for this period; After all, the country was part of alternately the Danish and then the Swedish empires for a long time.
Christmas is called Jul in Norway (Yule).
Norwegians celebrate Christmas on December 24, the tradition is that there is the Julebord (which means yule table), a festive midwinter meal. This tradition has existed since the Middle Ages.
The Christmas menu traditionally consists of pig or lamb and in Western regions also sheep's head. This is accompanied by potatoes and turnips (with the lamb) or sauerkraut (with the pork). For dessert they eat riskrem (rice porridge with whipped cream). There is an almond hidden in it and the person who finds it receives a small gift (often a marzipan pig). Other Christmas dishes are risengrysgrøt, ribbe, juletorsk, pinnekjøtt, medisterpølse, lutefisk and Aquavit is often served as a drink
It was customary to leave the remains of the meal on the table or put it outside, so that poor people and vagabonds could also enjoy it. Furthermore, food was left outside at night to honor the mythical, supernatural creatures in the forests (e.g. trolls and nisses). |
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The Norwegians also know the nisse as Santa's helpers or Julenissen (Norwegian Santa Claus). For the Norwegians, the Julenissen lives in Drøbak (south of Oslo) where a whole Christmas village has been set up.
In Norway, gifts are exchanged on Christmas Eve. If there are young children present, they will be handed out by Santa Claus, otherwise they will be placed under the tree and handed out by the youngest present.
Lucia is also celebrated in Norway. |
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Christmas traditions in Sweden.
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In Sweden, the Christmas season is preceded by the celebration of St. Lucia Day on December 13. St. Lucia was a young Christian girl who secretly brought food to persecuted Christians in the catacombs of Rome. In order to be able to take as much food as possible, but still have light, she wore a crown of candles on her head. Unfortunately, she was caught once and died a martyr's death (in the year 304).
The story of St. Lucia was introduced to Sweden by the first monks who began Christianization in the country. It apparently made a deep impression on the population.
The choice of December 13 for St. Lucia Day comes from the old Julian calendar. December 13 was the day of the Winter Solstice at the time; the pagan festival of lights thus became the festival of lights of St. Lucia. |
In Sweden, presents are now brought by Jultomten (Swedish Santa Claus) or by his helpers, the tomten or nissar (gnome-like creatures). Jultomten lives - quite appropriately - in Tomteland in the province of Dalarna, in central Sweden.
In the past, however, the story of the bringer of gifts was different in the Scandinavian countries. Traditionally, the Jule goat appeared on Christmas Eve, knocked on the door and delivered gifts. Later the image of the Jule goat changed into the Tomte and later again into the Jultomten. In Sweden, however, some families still keep a goat made of straw in the house or garden every year. |
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Christmas traditions in Finland.
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The Jule time is also very important in Finland. This Christmas season is called Joulu, (Joelfeest).
In Finland the myth of the Jule goat (Joulupukki) is different from that in the surrounding countries. The Jule goat was originally fearsome and would have asked people for gifts instead of handing them out. Over time, the Jule goat looked friendlier and then became the bringer of gifts, until (Finnish) Santa Claus took over that task again. However, the name Joulupukki was retained, even though Santa Claus was definitely not a goat.
According to the Finns, Santa Claus (Joulupukki) lives with his wife in Korvatunturi and/or Rovaniemi in Lapland. Joulupukki is very old and sometimes uses a walking stick.
Joulupukki does not fly through the air on his sleigh with reindeer like the American Santa Claus, but rides on the ground. Christmas elves check whether children are good or bad and Joulupukki rides around with his reindeer to deliver gifts, but if children have been naughty, he leaves a bag of coal behind. |
December 24 is a special and perhaps the most important day of the Jule time. It has then become customary to go to cemeteries and visit the graves of family and friends to commemorate the dead with candles. Because some cemeteries are very large, police are on hand to direct the busy traffic on this day.
Around Jule time in Finland it gets dark around 3 p.m. That is why many candles and lanterns are lit and placed at the graves. The entire cemetery then lights up with burning candles and lanterns in the snow, a truly fairytale sight. Christmas Day is usually spent quietly at home with the family. |
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Joulupöytä is the food eaten during Christmas, it can be translated as yule table. The most important is the ham, which is eaten with mustard and bread. Fish is also served. Other dishes include Laatikkos, various casseroles, karjalanpaisti, pickled herring and are accompanied by Koskenkorva Viina, beer, wine or milk.
A traditional dessert is gingerbread, rice pudding and coffee, tea or gin. An almond is hidden in the pan with rice pudding, the person who is served this can be the first to open their present or make a wish.
Star singers perform during the Christmas period.
The Lucia festival is also celebrated in Finland.
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Christmas traditions in Italy.
In Italy Christmas is called Natale, which means birthday. There is a nativity scene in almost every church and in almost every home. The Italians decorate their homes with holly and mistletoe and with candles and a ceppo.
Italy is an exciting place during the Christmas period. Italian Christmas customs are as varied as the Italian people. The Ceppo is one of these diverse ones.
For some Italians, the Ceppo refers to a Yule log. The log was burned in the fireplace during the Christmas season and had many important meanings. Some of these include the purification of fire, the image of the sun, and the symbolic burning away of the accumulated evil of the old year. Sometimes the children were blindfolded and given a long stick to hit the burning log. This would cause sparks to fly down the chimney. Once the children removed the blindfolds, they found a small gift. The ashes of the tree trunk were saved so that they could be scattered on the fields in the spring as a sign of good luck for the new crops. |
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Not all Italians associate the Ceppo with a log burning in the fireplace. For those Italians, the Ceppo refers to a pyramid-shaped structure made of wood. That is a kind of open pyramid in which Christmas items are placed, just like the Christmas tree in the Netherlands.
This tiered tree was believed to be found in the Tuscan region of Italy. arose. The tiered tree would contain three to five planks and the frame would be decorated with fringe or pretty paper. On the bottom shelf the family displayed their precious "Presepio" (crèche or nativity scene). The remaining shelves would contain greenery, fruit, nuts and gifts.
The presepio would represent the gift of God, the fruits and nuts would represent the gifts of the earth and the gifts would represent the gifts of man. The top of the Ceppo would be decorated with an angel, star or a pineapple, representing hospitality.
Some families attached candles to the outside of each shelf and lit them. This is why the Ceppo is often called the 'Tree of Light'. |
A traditional dish eaten at Christmas is the Panettone.
In Italy the Christmas witch La Befana delivers presents on Epiphany. She is looking for Jesus Christ and brings sweet children candy, naughty children get cabbage or dark candy.
In Italy Lucia is also celebrated.
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Christmas traditions in Poland.
In Poland, Christmas is seen as the most important festival of the year, a real family celebration. In Poland, Christmas starts on the evening of December 24, this evening is called Wigilia. On this evening everyone wants to be home with family.
From the morning onwards, almost every household cooks and bakes for this evening. A traditional dish is Makowiec.
During dinner, which traditionally consists of 12 or 13 dishes, barszcz, pierogi, different types of fish and kompot, a fruit drink, are often drunk. Meat and anything that falls under the category of "fatty and sweet bites" are ignored for the entire day, as fasting takes place on the day before Christmas. It is tradition to place some straw under the tablecloth, as a symbol of Jesus' manger.
It is very important before the start of the dinner to hand out opłatek, paper-thin waffle bread (similar to the host), of which everyone eats part of each other's opłatek and wishes the very best. An extra place with a plate at the table for an unforeseen guest is also customary, as a symbol of hospitality and as a place for any deceased family members.
After dinner, gifts are distributed and most people go to midnight mass (pasterka). |
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Christmas traditions in the Czech Republic.
In the Czech Republic Christmas is also called "Vánoce" and is an important celebration for the Czech people
Christmas starts on Christmas Eve, December 24. Carp/schnitzel is traditionally eaten with potato salad. The carp are sold en masse a few days before Christmas, often in large barrels left outside on the street. The table should not be missing a Christmas loaf and many types of Christmas cookies, usually home-baked at home.
This evening is especially exciting for the children. |
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After the evening meal, the Christmas tree is lit with stars and Christmas carols are sung. And then the Jesus/Christmas child (Ježíšek) brings presents. For big and small.
Midnight is celebrated in the churches with Christmas concerts. The nativity scenes can be viewed in many places.
Christmas is celebrated in the Czech Republic Celebrated December 25 and 26. During the communist regime, Christmas was allowed to be celebrated, but this festival was held as a celebration of the winter solstice. The religious background was then concealed, as was everything concerning religion.
In addition to many Christmas carols, we listen to 'Böhtische Hirtenmesse' by Jakub Jan Ryba.
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Christmas traditions in Hungary.
The Hungarian term for Christmas is Karácsony.
Kecskézés is being performed in Hungary, the story of the birth of Christ through the eyes of a shepherd. The play is staged in the houses. One of the figures is a stupid goat who asks questions and this dialogue tells the whole story about the coming of Christ. After the performance, the residents are blessed and wished them a Merry Christmas. Food or sometimes money is given as thanks.
The custom has been adapted, nowadays it is often performed in the cathedral. |
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Christmas traditions in Slovakia.
Many Christmas markets in Slovakia start in the week before Christmas, but Bratislava's starts in November. Christmas trees are very popular and remain up until Epiphany. In addition to decorations and candles, they are decorated with goodies.
In Slovakia the three magicians play a role during the Christmas period.
The Christmas celebration (vianoce) lasts from December 24 to 26, culminating in a traditional Slovak celebration of Christmas Eve, known as Štedrý deň.
It is a time when families come together to share a festive meal and exchange gifts. The evening starts with lighting the Christmas tree, beautifully decorated with ornaments, Christmas decorations and twinkling lights. This is followed by a Christmas meal to strengthen solidarity, which has many regional variations. Soup, fish (usually carp), peas and plums are part of it. A special waffle with honey and sometimes garlic (oplatka) is often used as a seasoning and the meal is opened with an apple that is distributed among those present. Fruit or Christmas cookies serve as dessert.
After the Christmas meal, presents are exchanged, and small children are told that they come from the baby Jesus. Around midnight many go to midnight mass. Just like elsewhere, Christmas is a real family and food day with lots of sweets on TV. Many spend the period from Christmas to New Year in a house in the mountains. |
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Christmas traditions in Serbia.
In Serbia The Orthodox Church is also the largest church, and Christmas (Božić, pronounced "bozhjitj") is therefore celebrated on January 7. Like everything in the Orthodox Church, this is much less exuberant but internally deeper than, for example, the Roman Catholic Church.
However, New Year's Eve, the week before, is celebrated by non-believers, in the home with a special meal and with New Year's parties in the new year. However, this is the result of the Western orientation of twentieth-century state leaders who turned their backs on the ancient national heritage. In Serbia traditionally, January 13/14 was celebrated as New Year's Eve.
In Serbia Koleduvane is performed. Koleduvane is a ceremony among the Slavic peoples and is performed by koledari. Both words come from the Church Slavonic word Koleda, a festival incorporated into Christmas.
The koledari start on Christmas Eve at midnight. They visit the houses of their relatives, neighbors and other people in the village. The ceremony is usually performed by young men, who are accompanied by an elder called a stanenik. Each koledari carries a stick called gega. They wish the people of the village health, wealth and happiness. |
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Christmas traditions in Ukraine.
Christmas is one of the most important Christian holidays in Ukraine. Most Ukrainians celebrated Christmas on January 6 and 7 due to Russian influences, but nowadays Ukraine is breaking away from those influences and Christmas will be celebrated on December 25 from 2023
In Ukraine, the Christmas trees are not filled with balls and garlands, but with cobwebs and fake spiders. This is done because of an old story about a poor widow who had no money to buy decorations for the family Christmas tree. So the tree looked very bare.
| An old and unique tradition in Ukraine is singing Christmas carols at a Christmas scene. This tradition is still maintained in some villages! This Christmas scene with singing is often based on the Ukrainian vertep, a puppet theater piece about the birth of Christ. All singers play a role in the Christmas scene. The person wearing the 'Star of Bethlehem' rises first. Then the bell ringer comes to announce the festive news with bells. The last person carries a bag with gifts from the residents of each house. |
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Singing Christmas carols is certainly an important Ukrainian Christmas tradition. On Christmas Day, groups of children and young people go from door to door to sing songs and glorify the Lord and the residents of the house. Such songs often sing wishes for well-being, health and happiness. Usually the owners of the houses treat the Christmas carolers with sweets.
The Ukrainian origins of 'Carol of the Bells'
The most famous Ukrainian Christmas carol is 'Shchedryk' by Mykola Leontovytsj, which was written at the beginning of the twentieth century. After the tours of the Ukrainian National Choir in European countries and the United States, 'Shchedryk' became known all over the world.
In 1936, the American composer Peter Wilhousky wrote a new text for the song. The music itself has remained the same for generations in Wilhousky's 'Carol of the Bells' and Leontovytsj' 'Shchedryk'. |
Ukrainian National Choir |
One of the symbols of Christmas in Ukraine is the diduch, which takes a special place in the home during the holidays. The diduch is a sheaf of rye, wheat or oats, which symbolizes the harvest, well-being, wealth and the spirits of ancestors. It is a talisman for the family.
The Christmas celebration traditionally starts with the holy dinner on Christmas Eve. According to tradition, the whole family gathers at the festive table for the appearance of the first star, which symbolizes the birth of Christ. The holy dinner begins with a prayer and the lighting of the Christmas candle.
There must be twelve Lenten dishes on the table, in honor of the twelve apostles. Because Christmas in Ukraine is preceded by a long fast of forty days, all dishes during the holy meal must be low in fat.
This fast before Christmas is established so that people can cleanse themselves physically and spiritually on Christmas Eve through prayer, fasting and repentance.
One of the most important dishes of the holy dinner is Ukrainian kutya, which consists of boiled wheat berries with poppy seeds, honey, nuts and raisins. After eating, it is customary to leave some kutya for the spirits of deceased ancestors, who would visit their relatives on Christmas Eve.
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Christmas traditions in Bulgaria.
Christmas is an important Orthodox festive season in Bulgaria, Christmas in Bulgaria, known as `Koleda` or `Rojdestvo Hristovo` (the Nativity), is a time when religious ceremonies and ancient traditions of the winter solstice are combined, where traditional customs and religious ceremonies combine to create a unique and memorable holiday season.
It is a period in which the emphasis is on family ties, community ties and adherence to old customs. The special thing about Christmas in Bulgaria lies in its centuries-old traditions and deep religious significance. Church services, especially midnight mass, are at the heart of Christmas.
Homes and public places are decorated with Christmas lights and decorations, although the tradition of Christmas trees is not as common as in many other countries. |
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In fact, Christmas in Bulgaria lasts four days; December 24 and December 27 also count as work-free days, with Christmas Eve, December 24, being the real highlight. "Women prepare the food and men traditionally focus on the open fire. The meal is vegetarian and includes bean soup, stuffed cabbage and peppers, nuts and pita bread. A coin is hidden in that bread. The one who finds the coin is the lucky person for the coming year. Wine and raki are drunk with the meal."
Christmas Eve is a time for families to gather and share festive dishes. After Christmas, New Year and Jordanovden, another important Orthodox holiday, are celebrated.
Traditionally, Christmas Eve dinner consists of several vegetarian dishes (usually 7, 9 or 12), including beans, sauerkraut, various grains and fruit. The exchange of gifts usually takes place on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. |
The day that is called Christmas Day in the Netherlands, there is a very extensive Christmas meal with lots of meat. The hearth fire symbolizes the increasing power of the sun and the fire must continue to burn all night. They continue to smell because the wood is partly filled with a mixture of oil, incense and wine.
On Christmas Eve, so-called 'Koledari' (Christmas singers dressed in traditional costumes) go door to door singing in pairs.
In Bulgaria people wish each other at Christmas 'Čestita Koleda' or 'Vesela Koleda'."
Bulgaria's Christmas traditions are rich and varied, reflecting the country's deep-rooted Orthodox heritage and cultural idiosyncrasies.
Traditional Christmas figures, known as 'koledari', go from house to house singing and bringing good luck and prosperity. Badni Vecher (Christmas Eve) is a particularly important day when families come together and share specially prepared bread called 'pita'. |
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