The Top 5 Christmas Traditions From Around The World
TOP 5 CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS – It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Christmas has been etched in the hearts of millions from across the world.
Every culture has its own way of celebrating the Holiday season. In this article, we will be looking at the top 5 traditions from across the world.
GIANT LANTERN FESTIVAL, PHILIPPINES – The Giant Lanter Festival in San Fernando is held yearly on the Saturday before Christmas Eve. In addition to this, San Fernando is also considered the Christmas Capital of the Philippines.
The gigantic lanterns can get up to 6-meters in size. These are then lighted by electric bulbs in a kaleidoscope-like pattern.
Gävle Goat, Sweden – Ever since 1966, a 13-meter-tall Yule Goat is built in the middle of Gävle’s Castle Square for the Advent.
However, this tradition gave birth to another tradition – people attempting to burn down the giant goat. Since 1966 it has been burned 29 times.
Saint Nicholas’ Day, Germany – This is Germany’s origin story of Santa Claus. Nikolaus traveled by donkey in the middle of the night on December 6.
He then leaves treats like chocolate and toys in the shoes of good children all over Germany. However, St. Nick brings Ruprecht, a devil-like character with him who punishes misbehaving ones.
DAY OF THE LITTLE CANDLES, CAMBODIA – According to an article from Momondo, the Little Candle’s Day (Dia de las Velitas) marked the beginning of the Christmas season across Colombia.
This is in honor of the Virgin Mary and the Immaculate Conception. On this day, people leave candles and paper lanterns in their windows, balconies, and front yards. The entire country is lit up with elaborate displays.
Cavalcade of Lights, Toronto – The annual Cavalcade of Lights kicks off the holiday season. The first Calvacade was in 1967 to highlight Toronto’s newly built City Hall and Nathan Philips Square.
Here, the Square and the Christmas tree are lighted by more than 300,000 LED lights that shine on from dusk till 11 pm until the New Year. There’s also a fireworks show and outdoor ice skating.
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