Although customs vary and secular observances now play a part in the celebration, Christmas has always been a religious holiday. Therefore, it is celebrated predominantly in countries where Christianity is a significant religion.
Feliz Navidad! In Mexico, they start their festivities on December 16. For the nine nights before Christmas, families attend parties, or "posadas" as they call it. On Christmas Eve, the largest posada of all is held. At midnight, people go to church, and that is followed by a large feast. At times, gifts are exchanged at church, but children often wait until King's Day (January 6) to receive gifts!
Japan is not a predominantly Christian country, but Christmas has become a secular holiday that many Japanese people enjoy. Homes are decorated with evergreens, special meals are prepared, and Christmas songs sung. Some even get special visits from Hoteisho (Santa)!
The customs followed by the people of Africa are widely varied. In Ethiopia, children get up early to be at 4:00 am church services. In Ghana, on Africa's west coast, most churches herald the coming of Christmas by decorating the church and homes beginning with the first week in Advent, four weeks before Christmas. In Cape Town, South Africa, most families get together at home or on the beach. How's that for Christmas weather?!
In Brazil, Christmas arrives at the beginning of summer. There is no snow, cold, or need to bundle up, but in spite of the heat, Santa Claus known here as "Papai Noel" wears the traditional red and white suit. The celebration runs from December 25th to January 6th (Three Kings' Day), lasting 12 days!
Most of the activities in England center around church celebrations. Christmas caroling and Christmas plays and stories are favorites of the holiday season. Christmas trees are very popular, however instead of cutting them down, people dig them up along with some soil, and keep them in a large tub - pretty cool!
Christmas in Australia is usually very HOT! It is not unusual for temperatures to reach near 100 degrees Fahrenheit on Christmas Day! A traditional meal includes a turkey dinner, with ham, and pork. A flaming Christmas plum pudding or mince pies are added for dessert. Sounds delicious!
We hope you've enjoyed this mini-trip around the globe for the holidays. Though celebrated in various ways, the holidays are a joyous occasion for EVERYONE all around the world!
what I wouldn't give to lay on a beach on Christmas day!
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