The holiday season is here! For different people, that can mean many different things. This is especially true when we look across the whole world. One of my favorite Christmas-time memories from growing up was going to the SPIRITS OF GIVING FROM AROUND THE WORLD exhibit in the PPG Place in Pittsburgh. It was so fun to read about different cultures and learn about their "Santas" and how they celebrate the season.
Today, we are going to take a look at some of the unique holiday traditions from around the globe.
Holiday Traditions From Around the World:
Mexico: Night of the Radishes
Every December 23, the city of Oaxaca in Mexico transforms into a vibrant display of creativity and tradition with the celebration of La Noche de Rábanos or the Night of the Radishes. This unique festival, steeped in history, sees local artisans and merchants meticulously carve radishes into intricate scenes that depict nativity events, a myriad of wild animals, and more. These radish sculptures, remarkable for their detail and craftsmanship, are put on display in the town's main square for everyone to admire. The most impressive radish carving is awarded a monetary prize. This is a truly unique tradition!
Germany: Krampus
The festive season brings not only joy and gifts but also a touch of fear to some with the arrival of Krampus. Believed to have started in Germany, but recognized in various countries currently, Krampus is imagined as a beast-like creature, often depicted with horns, fur, and fangs. This devilish character is St. Nicholas's companion and is known for punishing the bad children while St. Nicholas rewards the well-behaved ones. The night of December 5, known as Krampusnacht, is dedicated to this fearsome creature. During this night, men often dress as Krampus, prowling the streets and frightening children with their costumes. This tradition serves as a reminder for children to behave well during the holiday season. It's a chillingly unique holiday celebration that contrasts with the typically merry festivities!
Iceland: Thirteen Yule Lads
In the chill of Iceland, the holiday season brings a peculiar tradition involving the Thirteen Yule Lads. For the 13 nights leading up to Christmas, these mischievous figures, each with their unique personality and habits, take turns visiting children. Well-behaved children wake up to small gifts in their shoes, while those who have been naughty discover a rotten potato. In a darker twist, some even get a visit from the Lads' mother, Gryla, a fearsome figure said to boil misbehaving children in a cauldron, or the Christmas Cat, a giant kitty with a penchant for those not sporting new clothing. The Yule Lads also like to cause a ruckus around the house, slamming doors and clashing pots, creating a chaotic yet fascinating Christmas atmosphere.
Greece: Christmas Boats
In Greece, the holiday season takes on a nautical theme with the tradition of Christmas Boats called "Karavakia." This custom traces back to the country's ancient maritime tradition, where boats were decorated as a tribute or welcome home to the sailors who spent their lives traversing the sea. It was also a way to honor St. Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors, whose feast day falls on December 6. Although Christmas trees have also found their way into Greek homes now, the tradition of decorating boats remains active in Greek Christmas celebrations. The sight of these beautifully adorned boats, twinkling with lights, is indeed a unique and captivating spectacle.
Venezuela: Roller Skating to Mass
In the city of Caracas, Venezuela, an unusual but delightful tradition unfolds every Christmas morning. The roads are closed to motor vehicles, paving the way for residents to roller skate their way to morning mass. This lively tradition fills the streets with joy and laughter, echoing the festive spirit. Even more interesting, children add an extra twist to this custom. They tie strings around their big toes and hang them outside their windows. As skaters pass by, they give a light tug on these strings.
Embracing the Diversity of Global Holiday Customs
These are just a few examples of the diverse and vibrant traditions that people around the world partake in to celebrate the holiday season. From carving radishes in Mexico and roller skating to mass in Venezuela, it's clear that the spirit of the season takes on many fascinating forms. So, as we hang our stockings and decorate our trees, let's take a moment to appreciate the rich tapestry of global traditions that make this season truly unique and special. Happy Holidays to all, wherever you are and however you choose to celebrate!
If you are interested in learning more about unique holiday traditions, check out these unique New Year's traditions from around the world.
