Different countries have different Christmas traditions. If you think you know them all, or most of them, you might think again. From Mari Lwyd to the pre-Christmas Krampus, from the lucky cucumber to the spectacular Mexican "Noche de Rábanos," here are some 10 wonderful (and curious) Christmas traditions.
Index of topics
Mari Lwyd in Wales
In some villages in Wales, between Christmas and January, a strange figure called Mari LwydThe head is a horse's skull from which hang long ribbons of various colors intertwined with laurel leaves, ornaments, and lights, while the dress is made of a long white sheet. Legend has it that in ancient times, a pregnant mare was chased from the stable when Mary arrived to give birth to Jesus. Since then, she has wandered in search of a place to give birth, but since she can't find one, during the Christmas season she returns from house to house in search of suitable shelter.
Christmas Cucumber in the United States
Many people believe it is a German tradition, but in reality the cucumber-shaped Christmas decoration It's more common in the US, where it's hung last on the tree, well hidden from view. The first person to find it will be lucky all year long, and in fact, the first thing they get is an extra gift!
Noche de Rábanos in Mexico
La Night of rabanos It's a Mexican celebration common in the Oaxaca area. Two Spanish friars, in the mid-18th century, decided to harvest some irregularly shaped radishes and sell them at the Christmas market as a curiosity. Some farmers tried carving them into eccentric sculptures, hoping to attract more customers. This is how the custom of carving radishes, which were particularly abundant at the time, spread. carved radishes They began to be purchased by an increasing number of people for decorative purposes until, on December 23, 1897, it was decided to organize a real themed competition, which still today on this date rewards the most beautiful creations.
The nativity scenes of Krakow
The first Thursday of every December Krakow it is filled with cribs…and what nativity scenes! They are called "Szopki“They have been recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, and resemble miniature cathedrals. They celebrate the nativity and at the same time pay homage to the wonderful Polish city. They are made by both skilled craftsmen and locals who pass the tradition down through their families. During the annual Konkurs Krakowskich Szopek, The nativity scenes are displayed in the Market Square and the most beautiful ones are awarded prizes.
Christmas Bird Count in North America
This curious tradition was born in 1900 when a group of environmentalists decided to dedicate the period between December 14th and January 5th of each year to bird census. Even today, there are many volunteers in various parts of North America who dedicate themselves to observing and collecting data on local birds, which are then used in scientific research.
Karavaki in Greece
During the Christmas holidays in some islands and coastal regions of Greece it occurs the custom of “Karavaki”, which consists of Christmas-themed boat decorationOn the one hand, the tradition pays homage to the country's sailors, and on the other, it symbolizes the journey toward a new life, associated with the birth of Jesus.
Krampus in Austria and Northern Italy
The Krampus are demonic beings who accompany Saint NicholasAround December 5th, they wander through various towns in Austria, Bavaria, and Switzerland, but also in Friuli and Trentino, looking for naughty children, making a great racket with their loud cowbells. Luckily, Saint Nicholas keeps them at bay. This is a pre-Christmas tradition which attracts countless curious onlookers every year. Truly terrifying!
Jólasveinar in Iceland
In Iceland there is not just one Santa Claus but as many as 13., all children of the cruel ogress Grýla. These trolls bring gifts to children from December 12th until the 24th, a total of 13 presents. They leave them in a shoe that must be placed on the windowsill. Be careful, though: naughty children receive only potatoes instead of sweets and other gifts.
Colindă in Romania
The so-called CAROLS they are gods ritual songs of pagan origins, performed in Romania during the winter solstice, between Christmas and Epiphany. On Christmas Eve, children and young people dressed in traditional costumes, sometimes with their faces covered by masks, wander from house to house singing Christmas greetings. In return, they receive gifts.
Jólabókaflód in Iceland
If there's one country that favors reading at Christmas, it's Iceland. Throughout the month of December, Icelanders are dedicated to the purchase of books, which often become gifts given on Christmas Eve. A long-standing tradition: it originated during World War II after the country gained independence from Denmark.
Read also:
- DIY and low-cost Christmas gifts
- Christmas gifts for friends made from recycled materials
- Christmas Gifts for Kids: The Best Ideas
- How to save money on Christmas gifts
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