Holiday Traditions Enjoyed by Families Around the World
Tis the season for holiday traditions. Whether you are yours are looking forward to decking the halls or decorating cookies, most families have that special way of doing things that makes their season bright. While we all know the American holiday traditions we hold dear, it might be fun to branch out and try some international traditions this year.
A Feast of Fish
In the US, we usually have turkey or ham for the holidays but according to World Holiday Traditions, many other countries traditionally eat fish. Austria and the Czech Republic serve Carp while in Denmark they have herring with eggs. The site even has some recipes if you’d like to give one a try.
Warm Weather and Beach Parties
In Australia, it’s summer time during the holidays. Many families spend Christmas day together at the beach. Some Australians eat cold meat, salads and seafood, while others choose to make the traditional roast turkey and plum pudding.
A Santa by Any Other Name
Although lots of countries around the world are familiar with the man who brings presents to children on Christmas Eve, they call him different names. In Belgium he’s known as Pere Noel. In Italy, he’s Babbo Natale. In Chile they call him Veijo Pascuero or Old Man Christmas. Fact Monster has a full list of Santa’s Aliases.
Christmas, Hanukkah, and More
There are also a lot of different Holidays this time a year. Most Americans are familiar with Christmas and Hanukkah, but the Scholastics Holiday Sampler lists a few more. Kwanzaa is based on ancient African harvest festivals and celebrates family and unity. In Sweden they celebrate St. Lucia day by waking loved ones up with songs and coffee. During Chinese New Year people dress in new clothes and carry lanterns in a parade.
Whatever country, culture, or religion the one constant is that this is the time of year where families spend time together. From our family to yours, happy holidays from Laser Pegs.
