The most anticipated time of the year - for some - is celebrated in the most diverse ways across the world. Depending on the country you are in, it may be have deep religious connotations, it may be very pagan, or it may be neither. The traditions that are carried out during this period can seem curious to some, but they are all wonderful and fascinating. Here are some of the most unique holiday traditions around the world.
1. Gävle Goat, Sweden
In 1966 a giant straw goat weighing thirteen tons and measuring 43 feet tall was built in the town of Gävle. At midnight on New Year’s eve someone burnt it to the ground starting a tradition - that of trying to burn down the goat. In 48 years the goat was burned 26 times, the last one in 2013. It has been a struggle every year with half the town trying to keep the goat and another half trying to take it down.
If you want to follow this battle and the dangerous life of the goat live you can visit its website.
2. Krampus, Austria
Krampus is a demonic creature that wanders the streets scaring children and punishing the naughty. While Saint Nicholas rewards the good boys and girls, Krampus is a darker twist on the image of Santa. Around the 5th of December every year, men dress up as the mythical creature and dash through the streets scaring people along with the sounds of bells and chains.
3. KFC Christmas Dinner, Japan
Christmas has never been of much importance in Japan. To most in the country, it is almost a foreign curiosity. However, a sort of curious tradition has appeared in recent years - that of eating KFC for Christmas dinner. Apparently, sometime back in the 70’s someone from KFC was able to market to the entire nation that eating KFC was the western way of celebrating Christmas. In Japan, a one month in advance reservation is required for pick up at KFC on December 25th. How disappointed they would be if they realized that Colonel Sanders stores are actually closed here on Christmas!
4. Yule Lads, Iceland
During the thirteen days before Christmas, thirteen troll characters take to the streets to play in Iceland.
The so-called “Jólasveinarnir” visit the children across the country during the 13 days that antecede Christmas. The children put their best shoes on the window for each day of Yule, and on each day a different Yule lad leaves presents for boys and girls who behave and rotten potatoes for those who don’t.
Dressed in traditional costumes, such elves are rather mischievous and their names gives you a hint of what kind of mischief they get into. There’s the “window peeper,” the “sausage thief,“ and “spoon licker.”
5. Hanukkah
Hanukkah or Chanukkah is the Jewish 8-day Festival of Lights. It is celebrated by Jewish people all over the world, with the lighting of the menorah, special prayers, and specific foods.
In the United States, a giant menorah is lit on the lawn at the White House every year and Jewish communities across the country are set to mark the holiday with several public events for the 8-day celebration.
In Jerusalem, driedels and other Hanukkah symbols light up the walls of the Old City.
6. Los Escobazos Festival, Spain
“Los Escobazos” Festival happens every year on December 7th, one day before the Virgin Mary conception, and brooms play the main role in this celebration in La Vera Valley.
In the past when shepherds came to celebrate the date, brooms were used to light the paths. On this day, as the night falls, people come to the town’s main square with lit brooms singing and playing instruments. When the procession starts, donkeys are brought to the parade and brooms are held up by the participants.
7. Nicolinas, Portugal
In the town of Guimarães, in Portugal, the pinnacle of the celebrations in honor of Saint Nicholas is the Burial of the Pine, which is exactly what the name sounds like. Thousands of young people and tourists gather in a procession carrying a pine tree though the city streets. During the procession people play the drums and drink green wine and after that they dine at the several restaurants downtown.
These are just a few traditions that are carried out at the end of the year in several places around the globe. Some are related to myths and historical personalities, others are simply fun, and others are deeply religious.
It’s fascinating to be away from home and be able to witness local, unique celebrations going on. It makes us realize how culturally diverse human beings are and how important it is to respect one another in our differences and diversity.
Have you ever been able to witness a foreign holiday tradition? Are there any specific traditions in your town or family? Share with us through our Facebook page.
