Buzz
As Christmas approaches, let's delve into unique corners of the world to discover how locals celebrate the festive season with some unusual customs.
New Zealand: Ice Cream Feasts and Beach Dips
Due to its geographical location in the Southern Hemisphere, countries in Australasia experience Christmas during the peak of summer. The scorching climate leads to distinct Christmas traditions, and in New Zealand, many people have a tradition of hitting the beaches on Christmas evening. Instead of sipping hot beverages, Santa Clauses here prefer a cold beer. Christmas feasts often feature chilled dishes and BBQ grills rather than the traditional turkey.
United Kingdom: Pudding for Good Luck
Similar to the American turkey, Christmas pudding is a must-have at British Christmas feasts. While preparing the pudding ingredients, Brits have a tradition of making a wish. Additionally, the pudding may contain special items like peas or coins. It is believed that those who find them will be blessed with good luck.
Ukraine: Decorating Christmas Trees with Spider Webs
In contrast to the traditional Christmas trees adorned with colorful lights and ornaments, Ukrainians have a peculiar custom. They enjoy hanging fake spider webs or spider figurines on their Christmas trees. Additionally, the Orthodox Christmas is celebrated on January 7th each year. Interestingly, Santa Claus visits children on a sleigh pulled by three deer instead of the usual six.
Germany: Firing Guns on Christmas Day
In the village of Schöenau in southern Germany, there's a rather unusual tradition during Christmas. Men in the village dress in traditional attire and fire guns to herald the arrival of the festive season and welcome the new year.
Italy: Witches Delivering Christmas Gifts
In Urbania, Italy, the sight of a witch carrying a broomstick to deliver Christmas gifts to children has become a familiar scene. This character, known as La Befana, may look ugly but is known for her kind demeanor. Instead of anticipating Santa Claus with his reindeer, children in this region often look forward to an old witch bringing them presents.
Finland: Visiting Ancestors' Graves
In Finland, a traditional Christmas custom involves visiting the graves of loved ones. On the day before Christmas, family members gather to pay respects at the ancestral gravesite, lighting candles to honor those who have passed away.
By Dân trí
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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour
MytourDecember 23, 2014
