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.
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 Italy 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 Italy while listening to this episode of the InquisiKids podcast.
Christmas Traditions in Italy
Italy is a very regional country because historically it was not a united nation but many little city states. Consequently, you find that traditions vary greatly from region to region. What is common in the north of Italy is not the same in the south and vice versa.
One tradition that is common throughout the country is the use of the nativity scene or presepio. The nativity scene is a central Christmas decoration in Italy. Families create elaborate presepi with figurines depicting the Holy Family, shepherds, angels, and various village characters. These nativity scenes are displayed in homes, churches, and public places, and they can be quite intricate and detailed. There is an entire street in the city of Naples with shops dedicated to these collectibles and there’s even a museum devoted to these elaborate scenes. Learn more about these presepi on the InquisiKids podcast above, and to see one watch the video below.
In southern Italy and Sicily, people carry statues of the Holy Family through the streets, accompanied by music, and singing.
Italy has a unique gift-bringer called La Befana. She is an old woman who leaves gifts for children on the eve of the Epiphany (January 5). To learn more about this folktale, and why La Befana leaves gifts for children, listen to the InquisiKids podcast above.
The gift-bringer in Italy varies by region.
Babbo Natale (Father Christmas) isthe most universally recognized gift-bringer in Italy, similar to Santa Claus.
In some parts of southern Italy, especially in the Campania region, Gesù Bambino (Baby Jesus) brings gifts to children.
In other southern regions such as Sicily and Puglia, San Nicola (St. Nicholas) is the gift-bringer.
Santa Lucia (St. Lucy) leaves gifts for children in Lombardy, Veneto, and other northern regions
The extent of Santa Lucia's role in gift-giving can vary from one region to another and even from one family to another within the same region. Santa Lucia's celebration often includes processions, parades, and traditional foods in addition to gift-giving. While she is not as universally recognized as Babbo Natale in Italy, her feast day and associated traditions hold significance in certain areas, and her story is a cherished part of Italian folklore.
Christmas Recipes in Italy
Italian Christmas traditions are a harmonious blend of religious customs and festive celebrations steeped in deep-rooted culture. Panettone and Pandoro are two traditional Italian Christmas cakes. Panettone is a sweet, fruit-filled bread, while Pandoro is a golden, star-shaped cake dusted with powdered sugar. Both are enjoyed during the holiday season and are often given as hostess gifts. Both can be found in specialty stores in the US.
Add a new tradition to your holiday celebrations by making befanini cookies, a Tuscan specialty, for Epiphany, January 6!
Italian Christmas music traditions are deeply intertwined with the country's rich cultural heritage and religious significance. Traditional Italian carols, such as Tu scendi dalle stelle (You come down from the stars), Astro del Ciel (Silent Night), Venite Fedeli (Oh Come All Ye Faithful) and Gesù Bambino (Baby Jesus), resonate through homes, churches, and festive gatherings, filling the air with a sense of spirituality and joy. Check out Sonlight's Christmas Around the World Spotify playlist here to download Christmas music from Italy 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 Italiantraditions 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 France 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 France while listening to this episode of the InquisiKids podcast.
Christmas Traditions in France
France shares many similar traditions with its European neighbors such as using Advent calendars and lighting Advent candles in a wreath to count down the days until Christmas.
A Nativity scene, called a crèche, is a very common Christmas decoration in French homes and churches and includes all kinds of figures called santons ("little saints").
A Nativity scene, called a crèche
Christmas markets are called Marchés de Noëland are a popular way to shop for holiday treats, gifts, and crafts. A famous one is in Strasbourg.
It is common to exchange gifts and attend Midnight Mass in beautifully decorated old churches on Christmas Eve. Some families exchange gifts on Christmas Eve while others do so on Christmas Day. Well-behaved children receive gifts from Père Noël (Father Christmas).
Some traditions that are special to the French people revolve around food. The first is the Réveillon, which is a Christmas Eve feast featuring dishes like foie gras, oysters, and roast meats, accompanied by wine and Champagne. The second is the Bûche de Noël (Yule Log)which is the traditional Christmas dessert served as the grand finale to the Réveillon. It is a sponge cake, layered with creamy fillings, and frosted with a chocolate buttercream made to resemble a log. It has a bark-like texture and sometimes even has (candy) mushrooms “growing” on it. Want to try making one? (Or you might just enjoy seeing how one is made!)
Christmas Recipes in France
Réveillon is a cherished Christmas tradition in France. This festive meal, enjoyed on Christmas Eve, typically features an elaborate spread of culinary delights, including roasted meats, seafood, and a variety of regional specialties. Réveillon is known for its emphasis on decadent, multi-course dining, often culminating in a grand dessert like the bûche de Noël, a Yule log-shaped cake. The Réveillon is a time for families and friends to come together, exchange gifts, and celebrate the holiday spirit, creating an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness that is at the heart of French Christmas traditions.
Add a new French recipe to your collection with the recipe below!
French Christmas music traditions are steeped in centuries of history and exude a sense of timeless elegance and holiday charm. The French are renowned for their carols, or les chants de Noël, with classics like Petit Papa Noël (Little Father Christmas), Minuit, chrétiens (O Holy Night),and Il est né, le divin enfant (He is born, the divine child) being beloved staples. Check out Sonlight's Christmas Around the World Spotify playlist here to download Christmas music from France 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 French 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 Denmark 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 Denmark while listening to this episode of the InquisiKids podcast.
Christmas Traditions in Denmark
Denmark is another Scandinavian country, so it too shares similar traditions with its neighbors. Some similarities include observing Advent with calendars and wreaths; decorating homes with Christmas trees, ornaments, and lights; dancing around the tree; and celebrating St. Lucia Day (December 13).
The gift-bringer in Denmark is called Julemand, which is the Danish word for "Christmas Man". It refers to the Christmas gift-bringer in modern Danish culture, similar to Santa Claus. Julemand is often depicted as a short, bearded man wearing gray clothes and a red hat.
Before there was Julemand, there were mischievous elflike creatures called Nisse who lived on farms and helped with tasks or chores. They can be moody creatures so people would try to appease them with food. Children leave out a bowl of rice porridge, hoping to receive a gift in return.
Danish Christmas is celebrated on December 24. Traditionally, that means eating an elaborate Christmas dinner in the evening, dancing around the Christmas tree, and opening presents.
Christmas Crafts in Denmark
Creating Christmas decorations out of natural materials is very popular in Denmark. Candles, lots of pine-inspired decor, and colors tend to be white, red, gold, silver, and green. Visit this blog to inspire some of your own Danish Christmas crafting ideas.
Christmas Recipes in Denmark
Families enjoy Julefrokost, which is a traditional Danish Christmas lunch that can last all day. While technically, Julefrokost stands for “Christmas lunch”, it’s usually a meal you’ll eat all day — over the course of several hours. There are a host of courses to enjoy, laid out buffet-style so you can take as much as you like. During the Julefrokost event, loved ones come together to share a massive buffet full of popular Danish treats, while singing songs and playing party games. Dishes can include herring, liver pâté, meatballs, rice pudding and more. Add a touch of this Danish tradition to your Christmas celebrations with a popular recipe below!
In Denmark, music is an important part of Christmas. On Christmas Eve, it’s customary for Danes to hold hands and dance around the Christmas tree while singing Christmas carols and psalms. This tradition is also found in other Scandinavian countries. A popular song to sing while dancing is Nu er det jul igen (Now it is Christmas again). The singing often begins with this song. Check out Sonlight's Christmas Around the World Spotify playlist here to download Christmas music from Denmark 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 Danish 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.
