10 Surprising Christmas Celebrations, from KFC in Japan to Roller Skating in Venezuela.

Dec 24, 2023

Christmas celebrations around the world

Christmas is a time of joy and celebration, and each country has its own unique traditions and customs to mark this festive season. While many of us are familiar with the typical Christmas traditions like decorating the tree, exchanging gifts, and enjoying a big feast, there are some surprising and fascinating celebrations that take place in different parts of the world. From KFC being a popular Christmas meal in Japan to roller skating in Venezuela, here are 10 unexpected Christmas celebrations that will surely pique your interest.

1. KFC Christmas Feast in Japan

In Japan, Christmas is not a national holiday, but it has become a popular time to indulge in a special meal from a rather unexpected place - KFC. Yes, you read that right! KFC has successfully marketed their fried chicken as a Christmas tradition in Japan since the 1970s. Families pre-order their KFC Christmas meals months in advance, and it has become so popular that people often have to wait in long lines to get their hands on their festive buckets of chicken. Read more about this unique Christmas tradition.

2. Roller Skating to Mass in Venezuela

In Caracas, the capital city of Venezuela, it is a common tradition for people to roller skate to early morning Christmas Mass. The streets are closed to traffic to ensure the safety of the skaters, and families and friends gather to skate together to church. This unique celebration has become so popular that it is now a cherished part of the Venezuelan Christmas tradition. Discover more about this fascinating holiday tradition.

a person riding a roller skate next to a disco ball

3. The Giant Lantern Festival in the Philippines

The Giant Lantern Festival, also known as "Ligligan Parul," is held in the city of San Fernando, Philippines. This festival showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of local artisans who create enormous lanterns made of bamboo and colorful paper. These lanterns can reach up to 20 feet in diameter and are illuminated with hundreds of bulbs. The festival draws tourists from all over the world who come to witness the breathtaking display of lights and music. Discover more about this spectacular Philippine Christmas tradition.

4. The Yule Lads in Iceland

In Iceland, children eagerly await the arrival of the Yule Lads, who are a group of mischievous characters that visit homes in the 13 nights leading up to Christmas. Each Yule Lad has a distinct personality and brings small gifts or treats for well-behaved children. However, they are also known to play pranks on those who have been naughty. The Yule Lads have become an integral part of Icelandic Christmas folklore and add an element of excitement and anticipation to the holiday season. Explore more about this enchanting Icelandic Christmas tradition.

5. The Night of the Radishes in Mexico

On December 23rd each year, the city of Oaxaca in Mexico comes alive with the Night of the Radishes, or "Noche de Rábanos." This unique event features elaborate sculptures made entirely out of radishes. Local artisans spend hours meticulously carving the radishes into intricate scenes depicting religious figures, animals, and other festive themes. The Night of the Radishes attracts thousands of visitors who marvel at the creativity and skill of the artists. Discover more about this enchanting Oaxacan Christmas tradition.

6. The Christmas Pickle in the United States

While not as widely known as some other traditions, the Christmas Pickle has gained popularity in certain regions of the United States. The tradition involves hiding a pickle-shaped ornament somewhere on the Christmas tree. On Christmas morning, the first person to find the pickle receives a special gift or is said to have good luck for the upcoming year. It adds an element of surprise and excitement to the holiday festivities.

7. The Witch of Christmas in Italy

8. The Christmas Sauna in Finland

In Finland, saunas are an integral part of the culture, and Christmas is no exception. It is customary for families to take a sauna bath on Christmas Eve before heading to church or enjoying their festive meal. The sauna is seen as a way to cleanse and purify both the body and the soul before the start of the new year. It is a relaxing and rejuvenating way to celebrate the holiday season. Discover more about this soothing Finnish Christmas tradition.

9. The Christmas Spider in Ukraine

In Ukraine, it is believed that finding a spider web on your Christmas tree brings good luck and prosperity. This tradition stems from a folk tale about a poor widow who couldn't afford to decorate her tree. Overnight, spiders spun intricate webs on the tree, which turned into silver and gold in the morning. Now, it is common for Ukrainian families to include spider web decorations on their Christmas trees as a symbol of good fortune. Explore more about this enchanting Ukrainian Christmas custom.

10. The Burning of the Devil in Guatemala

In Guatemala, the week leading up to Christmas is filled with unique traditions, one of which is the Burning of the Devil, or "La Quema del Diablo." On December 7th, Guatemalans gather to burn effigies of the devil and other evil spirits. This symbolic act is believed to cleanse the homes and communities of any negative energy before the start of the Christmas season. It is a powerful and visually striking celebration. Explore more about this captivating Guatemalan Christmas tradition.

These surprising Christmas celebrations from around the world remind us that while the holiday may be celebrated differently in each country, the spirit of joy, love, and togetherness remains universal. Whether it's enjoying a KFC feast in Japan, roller skating to Mass in Venezuela, or participating in any of these unique traditions, embracing the diversity of Christmas celebrations can add a touch of excitement and wonder to our own holiday traditions.