Christmas 2023: 10 Xmas traditions from around the world

Ahead of Christmas 2023, check out these 10 Xmas traditions followed by the Christian community from around the world

Updated on Dec 25, 2023 08:33 AM IST 11 Photos
1/11

If you thought Christmas is the same all the world over, think again because depending on which part of the world you might already have booked your tickets to visit, you’ll want to be part of the festivities as local Xmas traditions vary around the world. Ahead of Christmas 2023, check out these Xmas traditions followed by the Christian community from around the world - (Photo by JUAN MABROMATA / AFP)

2/11

1. There are several rituals associated with Christmas. Apart from bringing home a Christmas tree and decorating it with ornaments, people sing carols, hang mistletoes to symbolise love, donate to the needy, attend midnight mass at the Church on Christmas eve, exchange gifts, bake cookies and spend the day with loved ones. (Unsplash/Eugene Zhyvchik)

3/11

2. Another popular ritual involves children leaving warm milk and cookies for Santa at night in the hope of receiving gifts from him. For a long time, Christmas has been associated with the mythical figure of Santa Claus. He is based on the traditions associated with Saint Nicholas, a 4th Century Saint. It is believed that Santa Claus lives in the North Pole with his many helper elves. Each year, on Christmas Eve, Santa Claus rides on his sleigh from the North Pole to give gifts to children. (PTI)

RECOMMENDED PHOTOS
4/11

3. People love decorating their houses and offices with wreaths, candy canes, holly, mistletoe and stockings and of course, a Christmas tree — whether really tall or miniature — with colourful ornaments, is a must. ( Jonathan Borba)

5/11

4. A common custom is that many individuals and churches set up a nativity scene, depicting the birth of Christ where a manger or barn is recreated, and there are figures representing Joseph, Mary and baby Jesus. They are usually surrounded by angels, the biblical Magi, shepherds and animals like a donkey, ox and camels. ( REUTERS/Ajeng Dinar Ulfiana)

RELATED PHOTOS