Interesting Christmas Traditions from Around the World

by Eleanor Matthews

Here in England, It's easy to become accustomed to the roast dinner and christmas carols which surround this festive holiday. However, maybe it's time to take some inspiration from our overseas neighbours and consider adding some exciting new activities and beliefs to the christmas repertoire. Here are some fun ones to consider:

Bad Santa (Austria)

In Austria, a ghoulish creature called Krampus, an evil accomplice of St Nicholas, is said to wander the streets in search of badly-behaved children. During the month of December, you can expect to see terrifying masked figures out and about scaring kids and adults alike with ghastly pranks. Apparently, this year, some Krampus celebrations have got out of hand.

Colonel Santa (Japan)

Back in 1974, the American fast-food restaurant, KFC, released a festive marketing campaign in Japan. The seemingly simple slogan "Kurisumasu ni wa kentakkii!" (Kentucky for Chritsmas!) spawned a national tradition that still thrives to this day. Although Christmas is not a national holiday in Japan, families from all over the country head to their local KFC for a special Christmas Eve meal. 

Pickle in the Tree (Germany)

The Christmas tree tradition embraced around the world today is believed to have started in Germany back in the 16th century, so it is unsurprising that the Germans still preserve some funny customs relating to festive trees. One of these is to hide a pickle somewhere within the branches of the tree and give a gift to whichever child in the household finds it. Some claim that the tradition may not be German after all. One legend says that the Christmas pickle originated in Spain when two young boys were held as prisoners inside a pickle barrel. Saint Nicholas rescued the boys and brought them back to life. 

Befana The Witch (Italy)

In Italy, all of the action takes place on the eve of January 5th. According to folklore, an old woman named Befana visits all of the children of Italy to fill their stockings with candy and leave them presents if they have been good. Just like Father Christmas, Befana enters through the chimney and is left treats by the children who live there - typically wine and local delicacies.