Christmas is a time for celebrating with family, friends, and loved ones. However, not all Christmas traditions are the same around the world. In fact, some countries have very unusual and unique customs that are celebrated during the festive season. Here are 10 unusual Christmas customs from around the world.
Eating KFC in Japan
Believe it or not, eating KFC on Christmas Eve in Japan is a popular tradition. This custom started in the 1970s when KFC launched a successful holiday marketing campaign. Today, people in Japan order their KFC Christmas dinner weeks in advance.
The Yule Cat in Iceland
In Iceland, the Yule Cat is a large and vicious cat that is said to eat those who have not received new clothes before Christmas Eve. This tradition is believed to have started as a way to encourage people to work hard and finish making new clothes before the end of the year.
The Krampus in Austria
The Krampus is a frightening horned creature that is said to accompany St. Nicholas on his visits to children. Unlike St. Nicholas, who rewards good children with gifts, the Krampus punishes wicked children.
Spider Webs in Ukraine
In Ukraine, it is traditional to decorate Christmas trees with spider webs. Legend has it that a poor widow could not afford to decorate her tree, but when her children woke up on Christmas morning, the tree was covered in spider webs that turned into gold and silver.
The Pooping Log in Catalonia
In Catalonia, the “Caga Tio” (pooping log) is a popular Christmas tradition. Children “feed” the log by placing food in its mouth, and then beat it with sticks until it “poops” out small gifts and sweets.
The Giant Lantern Festival in the Philippines
The Giant Lantern Festival, held in the city of San Fernando, is a spectacular display of intricate lantern designs. The festival has been a tradition since the 1920s and attracts visitors from all over the world.
Roller Skating to Church in Venezuela
In the Venezuelan capital of Caracas, it is customary to roller skate to church on Christmas morning. In fact, the streets are closed to traffic to make way for the skaters.
The Witches of Italy
In Italy, it is believed that witches are on the prowl on January 6th, which is known as La Befana. As a result, children will leave out a broomstick for the witch to ride on when she visits to deliver gifts.
The Gavle Goat in Sweden
Every year, a giant straw goat is erected in the town of Gavle, Sweden. However, the goat has become infamous for being burnt down by vandals almost every year since its inception in 1966.
The Noche de los Rábanos in Mexico
On the night of December 23rd, the Noche de los Rábanos (Night of the Radishes) takes place in the Mexican town of Oaxaca. Local residents use radishes to create intricate sculptures, which are displayed in the town square.
These are just a few examples of the countless different Christmas customs from around the world. While some may seem odd or even alarming to outsiders, they are all cherished traditions that have been passed down through the generations. Whether you celebrate Christmas at home or abroad, it is important to remember that the holiday is about coming together with loved ones and celebrating the spirit of giving and kindness.
