Usually, people complain about how fast Christmas comes around every year, but in 2020 it couldn’t come soon enough. It’s been hard on everyone, and you’re not alone if you’re feeling worn out by the whole thing. Christmas can be the perfect chance for you to focus on something positive. It brings people together, so why don’t we look at what Christmas looks like around the world?
Germany
Lots of the festive traditions we know and love come from Germany. The Christmas tree originated there in the 16th century. Trees were decorated with candles, apples, nuts and berries. Lots of German families will still use food as ornaments, such as chocolates and other candy. Did you know that some Germans even still use real candles on their Christmas trees in their homes? They look lovely, but if you want to try maybe opt for electric candles instead.
Australia
In the Northern Hemisphere, our Christmas cards and songs are full of snow, alongside cold, dark, nights. Whereas over in the Southern Hemisphere, the festive season happens in the middle of their summer. If you look at pictures of Santa he tends to be wearing shorts and flip flops. Some Australians will decorate a Christmas bush, which is a native tree with small green leaves and cream coloured flowers. In December, the leaves turn a shiny red.
Ukraine
People in Ukraine decorate their Christmas trees with spiderwebs. It doesn’t have the same spooky connotations that it does in the UK. In Ukraine, spider webs are a sign of good luck. This stems from an old folk tale where a spiderweb turned to gold on Christmas morning. To this day Ukrainians will decorate their trees with glittering webs to bring in good luck and fortune for the next year.
Mexico
In Mexico, Christmas isn’t complete without a nativity scene. It is set up four weeks before Christmas Day and is made out of wood or cardboard. It hosts a variety of characters: from the Virgin Mary and Joseph to Adam and Eve, and the devil. In some scenes, you may even spot a zebra or giraffe. There’s also the Advent crown, made out of four candles to represent the four Sundays of Advent.
Every country, and every home, has its own Christmas traditions. This year it’s more important than ever to spend time celebrating your own. What sort of Christmas traditions do you have in your house?
