Christmas is one of the most beloved and widely celebrated holidays worldwide. It is a special time that brings joy and sparkle to our lives with feasting and special rituals, colorful decorations, and the exchanging of gifts. Traditions have developed around this holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus and they have changed as they have crossed borders into other countries and over time. Dive into the Christmas traditions of Lebanon below.
Christmas is one of the most beloved and widely celebrated holidays worldwide. It is a special time that brings joy and sparkle to our lives with feasting and special rituals, colorful decorations, and the exchanging of gifts. Traditions have developed around this holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus and they have changed as they have crossed borders into other countries and over time. Dive into the Christmas traditions of Russia below.
Christmas is one of the most beloved and widely celebrated holidays worldwide. It is a special time that brings joy and sparkle to our lives with feasting and special rituals, colorful decorations, and the exchanging of gifts. Traditions have developed around this holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus and they have changed as they have crossed borders into other countries and over time. Dive into the Christmas traditions of Egypt below.
Christmas is one of the most beloved and widely celebrated holidays worldwide. It is a special time that brings joy and sparkle to our lives with feasting and special rituals, colorful decorations, and the exchanging of gifts. Traditions have developed around this holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus and they have changed as they have crossed borders into other countries and over time.
Dive into Christmas Traditions in Israel below. Download Sonlight's Christmas Around the World ebook to explore Christmas traditions from 19 different countries around the world, including 6 of the 7 continents!
Explore Christmas Traditions in the Israel while listening to this episode of the InquisiKids podcast.
Christmas Traditions in Israel
Because the major religions in Israel are Judaism and Islam, Christmas is celebrated by a small percentage of the population. The Christian community, which is made up of predominantly Arab Christians, is roughly about 2% of the country’s population. Although Christmas is not a public holiday in Israel, some Christmas traditions are observed by Christians as well as some secular Israelis.
Many Christians in Israel attend Christmas Eve and Christmas Day church services to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Two of the best-known churches for Christmas celebrations include the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem. (Search YouTube for some fascinating virtual tours! See one below.)
While Santa Claus (Baba Noël) is known and recognized, the emphasis of Christmas tends to be more on religious observances, including attending church services and participating in nativity scenes. Gift-giving on Christmas is not as widespread as in some other countries, but it can still occur in some Christian households.
Since Bethlehem is the birthplace of Jesus, many Christians come from around the world to participate in the festivities and visit the Church of the Nativity. The town is crowded with processions by a variety of different denominations, including Greek Orthodox, Armenian, Catholic, Protestant, and Ethiopian, that pass through Manger Square or the Shephard’s Fields. Some of these denominations do not celebrate Christmas on December 24 or 25. Rather, they observe the day on January 6 or 7.
Nazareth also comes alive during this time with processions and parades, a Christmas market, lighting of the Christmas tree, and services in the Basilica of the Annunciation.
Christmas Recipes in Israel
In Israel, Christmas recipes reflect the diversity of its population, with various traditions and flavors coming together. While not a public holiday, Christmas is celebrated by the Christian minority, and special dishes are prepared. One of the most iconic is Maqluba, a flavorful layered dish with rice, meat (typically chicken or lamb), and an assortment of vegetables seasoned with aromatic spices. Traditional sweets like Kahk (Egyptian Eid Cookies) and Tamriyeh (date-filled pastries) are also popular during the holiday season. These recipes combine elements of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, creating a unique blend that adds a flavorful touch to Christmas celebrations in Israel.
Sufganiyotare round, deep-fried jelly doughnuts that are eaten during the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. They are a cross between a beignet and a jelly donut. The doughnuts are injected with jam or custard and topped with powdered sugar.
Rugelach, a delectable Jewish pastry filled with ingredients like chocolate, nuts, and jam, is a beloved treat enjoyed alongside traditional Christmas festivities in Israel, showcasing the country's multicultural culinary tapestry. Try your hand at making this recipe here.
Download a Christmas Playlist
While not a dominant feature of Israeli culture, Christmas music does have its place, especially in Christian communities that celebrate the holiday. Check out Sonlight's Christmas Around the World Spotify playlist here to download Christmas music from Israel and around the world.
What is your favorite tradition to celebrate with your family around Christmastime?
From traditional festivities to unique customs, we hope these Israeli traditions add a rich diversity to your family celebrations during this joyous holiday. Download the complete Christmas Around the World ebook to infuse your holiday traditions with Christmas customs, recipes, and crafts from 19 countries around the world.
We'd love to hear more about the traditions you celebrate in your own home! Share your stories on your favorite social media outlet using #sonlightstories or comment below. Have a tradition you'd like to see added to this post? Let us know, by emailing us at main@sonlight.com.
Christmas is one of the most beloved and widely celebrated holidays worldwide. It is a special time that brings joy and sparkle to our lives with feasting and special rituals, colorful decorations, and the exchanging of gifts. Traditions have developed around this holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus and they have changed as they have crossed borders into other countries and over time.
Dive into Christmas Traditions in Argentina below. Download Sonlight's Christmas Around the World ebook to explore Christmas traditions from 19 different countries around the world, including 6 of the 7 continents!
Explore Christmas Traditions in the Argentina while listening to this episode of the InquisiKids podcast.
Christmas Traditions in Argentina
Christmas traditions in Argentina are a blend of customs influenced by European traditions and the country’s unique cultural identity. Traditions from European influence include the celebration of Nochebuena and la Misa de Gallo (Christmas Eve and Midnight Mass), Christmas trees are also decorated even though these trees are not native to Argentina. Nativity scenes (presebres), Christmas lights, and singing Christmas carols are also popular traditions.
Some regional traditions, especially in the south, include having a parrillada or barbecue on Christmas Eve. Argentina is in the southern hemisphere so it’s their summer! Shooting off fireworks at midnight on Christmas Eve (December 24) is another Christmas tradition—one of the luxuries of a warm climate! In addition to fireworks, globos or paper lanterns containing small candles are also lit at this time. The paper lanterns are released into the sky where they float off like mini hot air balloons.
Like Boxing Day in the UK, Día de San Esteban (St. Stephen’s Day) is celebrated on December 26th with gatherings, meals, and family time.
Christmas Crafts in Argentina
A popular activity to enjoy during Christmas in Argentina is making homemade gifts such as paintings, ceramics, ornaments, marmalade, and baked goods. People get together to make their gifts and give a unique and special gift to their loved ones during the holiday season. These homemade gifts reflect the spirit of giving and thoughtfulness during the Christmas season in Argentina.
Christmas Recipes in Argentina
The main dinner and celebration takes place on Christmas Eve, or Nochebuena. The most beloved Christmas meal in Argentina is vitel thoné. This Italian dish is made of slices of veal topped with tuna and anchovy sauce. It's only eaten around Christmas.
Additional foods served at Christmastime include Ponche Navideño—a traditional Argentine Christmas punch made with fruit and spices. It is often served as a warm, comforting drink during the holiday season. Get the recipe here!
Panettone(Similar to Italy, this sweet yeast bread is also popular in Argentina). Turrón is a Spanish-style nougat that is also enjoyed in Argentina during the holidays—see the recipes below. Finally, Mantecados de Anis (Spanish anise-flavored shortbread cookies) are commonly found on Christmas tables.
What is your favorite tradition to celebrate with your family around Christmastime?
From traditional festivities to unique customs, we hope these Argentine traditions add a rich diversity to your family celebrations during this joyous holiday. Download the complete Christmas Around the World ebook to infuse your holiday traditions with Christmas customs, recipes, and crafts from 19 countries around the world.
We'd love to hear more about the traditions you celebrate in your own home! Share your stories on your favorite social media outlet using #sonlightstories or comment below. Have a tradition you'd like to see added to this post? Let us know, by emailing us at main@sonlight.com.
Christmas is one of the most beloved and widely celebrated holidays worldwide. It is a special time that brings joy and sparkle to our lives with feasting and special rituals, colorful decorations, and the exchanging of gifts. Traditions have developed around this holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus and they have changed as they have crossed borders into other countries and over time.
Dive into Christmas Traditions in Mexico below. Download Sonlight's Christmas Around the World ebook to explore Christmas traditions from 19 different countries around the world, including 6 of the 7 continents!
Explore Christmas Traditions in the Mexico while listening to this episode of the InquisiKids podcast.
Christmas Traditions in Mexico
In Mexico, the main celebration is called Las Posadas. This celebration that lasts 9 nights begins on December 16th and culminates on the 24th. Posada is the word for “inn,” and it reenacts Mary and Joseph’s search for a place of lodging in Bethlehem. Each night, friends gather for a procession. A man plays the part of Joseph, and a woman plays the part of Mary. The procession stops at someone’s house where they ask if there is room for them. They ask by singing traditional songs known as villancicos. The people in the homes play the role of innkeepers, denying them shelter until finally allowing them in. They celebrate the evening with food. At the last house, on Christmas Eve, Joseph is told there is only room in the stable where a nativity is set up. Traditional food such as tamales, buñuelos, and hot ponche (a warm fruit punch) are served.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KY2qdIVc-A
Piñatas are a popular part of Mexican Christmas traditions, especially during Las Posadas as well as at other holiday celebrations. Children take turns trying to break open the colorful piñatas filled with candy and small toys.
Like other countries, Mexican families display nacimientos (nativity scenes), count down using an Advent Calendar, and celebrate Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) with a festive meal. They also attend la Misa de Gallo (Midnight Mass). They decorate Christmas trees and go caroling (villancicos).
In the town of Oaxaca, there is a unique tradition called la Noche de Rábanos (Night of the Radishes) on December 23rd. Residents carve figures out of radishes and other vegetables, creating elaborate scenes and displays that attract visitors from all over. Learn more about this tradition on the InquisiKids podcast at the beginning of this post.
Christmas Crafts in Mexico
The poinsettia, known as the Flor de Nochebuena in Mexico, holds significant cultural and symbolic importance during the holiday season. These Christmas flowers originated in southern Mexico and are named for Joel Poinsett, the first US Ambassador to Mexico. The plant reminds Mexicans of the story of a poor boy who was going to church to visit baby Jesus. He had nothing to bring as a gift, but on the way, he saw some plants on the side of the road. When he picked them something special happened: the top leaves changed to bright red. Add a touch of this enduring tradition to your holiday celebration by making this poinsettia pin craft.
Poinsettia Pin
These pins make a simple sweater look festive. You can also make it into a refrigerator magnet or a tree ornament with a few tweaks. Or make several and give them as gifts! Click here for instructions.
Christmas Recipes in Mexico
Christmas food in Mexico is a delightful fusion of traditional and festive flavors. The diverse and mouthwatering Christmas cuisine in Mexico is a reflection of the country's vibrant traditions and the joyous spirit of the season. Add one of these popular recipes to your celebrations this season.
Buñuelos(deep-fried dough drizzled with syrup or honey)
Polvorones (shortbread cookies dusted in powdered sugar)
Tamales (traditional Christmas dish made with masa and various fillings, both sweet and savory).
Rosca de reyes (sweet bread with a hidden figurine enjoyed on January 6th to celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany, also known as Día de los Reyes (Three Kings' Day)
Download a Christmas Playlist
Christmas music in Mexico is a vibrant and cherished part of the holiday season. Traditional tunes like Los Peces en el Río (The Fish in the River) and Noche de Paz (Silent Night) are often sung with great enthusiasm during posadas. Villancicos (Spanish Christmas carols) are a beloved part of the musical landscape, often performed in communities and homes. These songs, combined with the lively atmosphere of fiestas and colorful decorations, create a spirited and culturally rich Christmas music tradition that reflects the warmth and joy of the season in Mexico. Check out Sonlight's Christmas Around the World Spotify playlist here to download Christmas music from Mexico and around the world.
What is your favorite tradition to celebrate with your family around Christmastime?
From traditional festivities to unique customs, we hope these Mexican traditions add a rich diversity to your family celebrations during this joyous holiday. Download the complete Christmas Around the World ebook to infuse your holiday traditions with Christmas customs, recipes, and crafts from 19 countries around the world.
We'd love to hear more about the traditions you celebrate in your own home! Share your stories on your favorite social media outlet using #sonlightstories or comment below. Have a tradition you'd like to see added to this post? Let us know, by emailing us at main@sonlight.com.
Christmas is one of the most beloved and widely celebrated holidays worldwide. It is a special time that brings joy and sparkle to our lives with feasting and special rituals, colorful decorations, and the exchanging of gifts. Traditions have developed around this holiday, celebrating the birth of Jesus and they have changed as they have crossed borders into other countries and over time.
Dive into Christmas Traditions in Spain below. Download Sonlight's Christmas Around the World ebook to explore Christmas traditions from 19 different countries around the world, including 6 of the 7 continents!
Explore Christmas Traditions in the Spain while listening to this episode of the InquisiKids podcast.
Christmas Traditions in Spain
Although Spain has a diversity of Christmas traditions that vary from one region to another, some well-known customs and celebrations are widely observed across the country. One of the most prominent Christmas traditions in Spain is celebrating Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) over an elaborate meal of roast lamb, seafood, and a variety of traditional sweets. Many Spaniards also attend Midnight Mass.
On December 22nd, Spain holds one of the oldest, world-famous Christmas Lottery, known as El Gordo (The Fat One). The draw is a major event in Spain with people gathering to watch the live broadcast.
Elaborate Nativity scenes, called belenes, often include not only the Holy Family but also extensive representations of local life, featuring figurines of everyday people, animals, and miniature landscapes.
January 6th, known as Día de los Reyes(Three Kings’ Day, known elsewhere as Epiphany), is a significant day for gift-giving in Spain. According to tradition, the Three Wise Men bring gifts to children. Parades that feature the Three Wise Men are held across the country, and children leave their shoes out on the night of January 5th to receive gifts.
Christmas Recipes in Spain
The holiday season in Spain goes from Christmas Eve to January 6th. It is incredibly celebratory with a never-ending abundance of food and cheer. Two popular Christmas treats during the season are Turrón and Mantecados. Turrón is probably the most emblematic Christmas sweet in Spain. It is a type of nougat. Add these beloved traditions to your Christmastime celebrations and try a new recipe below!
Spain's Christmas music traditions are rich and diverse, combining both religious and festive elements. Traditional Spanish carols, known as villancicos, are an essential part of the holiday season, with classics like Campana sobre campana (Bell on bell), Noche de Paz (Silent Night) and Fum, fum, fum being sung by choirs and families alike. The country's unique instrument, the tambourine, often accompanies these songs, adding a distinct rhythm to the music. Check out Sonlight's Christmas Around the World Spotify playlist here to download Christmas music from Spain and around the world.
What is your favorite tradition to celebrate with your family around Christmastime?
From traditional festivities to unique customs, we hope these Spanish traditions add a rich diversity to your family celebrations during this joyous holiday. Download the complete Christmas Around the World ebook to infuse your holiday traditions with Christmas customs, recipes, and crafts from 19 countries around the world.
We'd love to hear more about the traditions you celebrate in your own home! Share your stories on your favorite social media outlet using #sonlightstories or comment below. Have a tradition you'd like to see added to this post? Let us know, by emailing us at main@sonlight.com.
