Christmas week is upon us, and it’s likely that you will be participating in some holiday traditions in the coming days.  We thought it would be fun to take a look at some Christmas traditions around the world, and here are a few of our favorites.

Finland

It is traditional to visit the sauna on Christmas Eve in Finland.  There is also a national “Peace of Christmas” radio broadcast that families listen to together.

Mexico

In Mexico, piñatas hold candy and coins for children to gather once broken open.  Here’s another interesting fact from History.com detailing how Christmas in Mexico has influenced holiday tradition in America:

“In 1828, the American minister to Mexico, Joel R. Poinsett, brought a red-and-green plant from Mexico to America. As its coloring seemed perfect for the new holiday, the plants, which were called poinsettias after Poinsett, began appearing in greenhouses as early as 1830. In 1870, New York stores began to sell them at Christmas. By 1900, they were a universal symbol of the holiday.”

France

Some people in southern France burn a log in their homes from Christmas Eve to New Year’s Day.  This comes from an old custom which promised good luck for the next year’s harvest to farmers who did the same.

Australia

Living in the Boston Metro area, it’s hard to imagine Christmas in Australia, which comes in the middle of summer.  A typical Christmas Day in Australia might include a barbeque or time at the beach in addition to family gatherings and exchanging gifts.

What is your favorite holiday tradition?  We would love to hear about it in the comments below!  From our family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Jay Nuss
Jay Nuss Realty Group, LLC
Check Out Our Website
Like Me on Facebook
Follow Me on Twitter
Connect With Me on LinkedIn
Add Me to Your Circles
Follow Me on Pinterest