In the United States we decorate trees, hang stockings, and shop until our feet become numb. However, being one of the most universally celebrated holidays in the world, Christmas tends to vary between different countries - sometimes quite similarly but other times very drastically.
1.England
England, our friend from across the pond, celebrates Christmas akin to the way we do. They decorate their house with lights, perhaps as obnoxiously as we do, and children hang stockings so that Father Christmas can leave presents in them on Christmas Eve. In England, the day after Christmas is called Boxing Day, which is essentially the European version of Black Friday. It looks like our English counterparts love consumerism just as much as we do!
2.China
In China, Christmas isn’t as popular as it is here in the states. Most Chinese are not Christian, therefore the holiday isn’t widely celebrated in the country. For those that do observe the holiday, they also put up Christmas trees, although made of plastic, and they give each other apples which serves as a sign of peace. Christmas in China is primarily a time to get-together with friends and family and it is usually not in the context of religion.
3.Mexico
Christmas in Mexico isn’t regulated to one singular day as the Christmas season begins around mid-December and ends in early January. During this time, Mexicans attend church, families put together ornate nativity scenes, the Three Wise Men bring children gifts. Mexico’s Christmas is deeply rooted in it’s Roman-catholic roots.
4.Greece
Christmas in Greece isn’t as lengthy as it is Mexico, but it is still a fulsome celebration, nonetheless. Lasting 12 days, Christmas in Greece is marked by the boisterous singing of Christmas carols, the decorating of the Christmas tree, and the burning of logs in fireplaces to keep away pesky goblins from entering homes through chimneys. Intense.
5.Russia
When they’re not busy hacking our elections, The Russian Federation is celebrating Christmas on the 7th of January. Customs include fasting, all-night masses, and extravagant Christmas day feasts. Their version of Santa Claus is called Babushka and she distributes presents to children.
6.Nigeria
In Nigeria, Christmas is a family occasion. Gifts are exchanged, carols are sung aloud, and children play with firecrackers in the streets. While turkey has been a Thanksgiving staple here in the U.S., turkey is actually a popular Christmas tradition in Nigeria.
As seen, Christmas is a global affair that shows us in spite of our unique differences, we all universally value family, togetherness, and the gross consumption of goods.
