Christmas is celebrated almost everywhere, but the traditions vary from country to country. Some are deeply rooted with a long history, others have emerged only in recent decades. We’ve had a closer look at a few of the most curious customs.
Japan: fried chicken instead of goose
While we might serve goose, raclette, or sausages with potato salad, in Japan fried chicken is the quintessential Christmas meal. In the 1970s, a clever advertising campaign convinced expatriates to order their holiday dinner from a well‑known Kentucky‑style fast‑food chain. The idea caught on, and today families pre‑order their “Christmas Bucket” weeks in advance. It shows how holidays can sometimes be born out of chance – or pure marketing.
USA: Pickle on the tree & jumpers
A glass pickle ornament hangs on many Christmas trees across the United States. The tradition – imported from the U.S. – has people hide a glass‑cucumber ornament among the decorations. Whoever spots it first gets to open an extra gift and is said to receive good luck for the coming year. The game encourages a longer, more appreciative look at the beautifully lit tree. It often appears alongside the famous “Ugly‑Christmas‑Jumper” parties: the wearer of the most hideous jumper wins a prize. A little humour never hurts, even during the holidays!
Spain: When luck decides
On December 22 the whole country holds its breath for the national Christmas lottery “El Gordo” (“the Fat One”). Families, friend groups, or entire villages buy tickets together. Even those who don’t win cheer along, welcoming the festive period with a spark of hope. In Catalonia, the “Tió de Nadal” (Christmas log) adds a sweet twist: a painted wooden log wearing a red hat is “fed” with bread and fruit in the weeks leading up to Christmas. On the day itself, children beat the log with sticks until it “defecates” candy and small gifts.
Scandinavia: The Almond Hunt
In the far north, a special rice pudding is part of the celebration. One almond is hidden in a serving bowl, and whoever finds it is promised great luck in the new year. In Sweden, the custom often coincides with a beloved television event: at 3 p.m. on December 24 the country watches “Donald Duck and His Friends.” It sounds quirky, but millions tune in together, making it a shared ritual.
Switzerland & France: Raclette as a communal experience
Raclette originates from the Valais region of Switzerland: a wheel of cheese is melted over an open fire and scraped onto potatoes, bread, or vegetables. Today, it’s a staple of many Christmas and New Year’s evenings. The magic lies in each person creating their own pan while everyone gathers around the same table. Raclette embodies both pleasure and togetherness – a culinary symbol of Christmas that unites people. Here at Kotányi we have a special love for it, because the right blend of spices can turn a simple cheese into something unforgettable.
Do you need some guidance for your perfect raclette dinner? Don’t worry! We’ve collected some of our tips & tricks for raclette first timers.
South Africa: Christmas BBQ in the heat
While we get cosy in blankets, South Africans fire up steaks on the braai. Christmas falls in the middle of summer, so celebrations happen outdoors – at gardens, parks, or beaches – with a classic South African barbecue. Instead of mulled wine there are chilled drinks, and instead of snowflakes there’s bright sunshine.
The diversity of Christmas
Around the globe, Christmas takes on many flavours, and that’s wonderful. A holiday that brings families together can take up countless shapes. Perhaps your own family has rituals that feel completely ordinary to you but seem unusual to others. That very mix of tradition and individuality keeps Christmas alive – each year creating a celebration as unique as the people who take part in it.
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