1. Advent Calendars in Germany
The tradition of Advent, derived from the Latin word adventus meaning “coming,” dates back to German Protestants in the 19th century. They marked 24 chalk lines on doors, erasing one each day in December. Paper Advent calendars gained popularity in the early 20th century, with Gerhard Lang credited for mass-producing the first versions featuring cardboard doors. Today, you can spot giant Advent calendars adorning buildings in towns like Hattingen and Bernkastel-Kues in Germany or Innsbruck, Austria.
2. Decorating Christmas Trees in Europe
Ancient pagan Europeans celebrated the winter solstice by bringing fir trees into their homes, decorating them with symbols of the sun, moon, and stars. Early Christians adopted this practice, with the cities of Tallinn, Estonia, and Riga, Latvia, claiming the first public Christmas trees. Modern Christmas trees—usually fir, spruce, or pine—remain a global tradition.
3. Noche de las Velitas in Colombia
On December 7, Colombia celebrates Noche de las Velitas (Night of the Little Candles), marking the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Homes and streets are illuminated with candles and lanterns, creating a dazzling spectacle. What started as a small family tradition has evolved into a nationwide celebration with music, fireworks, and vibrant decorations.
4. Ethiopian Christmas on January 7
In Ethiopia, Christmas, or Ganna, is celebrated on January 7 according to the Julian calendar. Ethiopians dress in traditional netela, a white cotton scarf with colorful ends, evoking the royal imagery of the three wise men, who many Ethiopians believe were from their land.
5. Poinsettias in Mexico
Native to southern Mexico, poinsettias bloom during the winter and are steeped in legend. A young girl, offering weeds at a Christmas Eve service, saw them transform into vibrant red flowers. Known as Flores de Noche Buena (Flowers of the Holy Night), poinsettias have since become a Christmas symbol worldwide.
6. La Quema del Diablo in Guatemala
On December 7, Guatemalans celebrate La Quema del Diablo (Burning of the Devil) by lighting bonfires and burning effigies of the devil to cleanse the past year’s misfortunes. The tradition features piñatas, devil costumes, firecrackers, and festive treats like buñuelos (donuts) and warm fruit punch.
7. Midnight Mass in Rome
The tradition of midnight mass traces back to 4th-century pilgrims in Bethlehem. By the 5th century, Pope Sixtus III formalized the practice in Rome’s Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. Today, midnight mass is a cherished tradition in many Christian communities around the world.
8. Réveillon de Noël in Québec
In Québec, Christmas celebrations begin late on December 24. Families attend midnight mass before indulging in a feast that includes tourtière, turkey, and sweet treats like bûche de Noël. The festivities often continue into the early hours, embodying the French term réveillon—a "wakening" celebration.
Explore the unique and colorful traditions that make Christmas magical across the globe!