10 Days of Christmas Around the World: Celebrate a New Culture Each Day
As we count down the days to Christmas, let’s make it extra special and take a trip around the world—right from our living room! Each day, we’ll celebrate how a different culture honors this magical season. No need to run to the store or hunt down rare items; we’ll use things you probably already have at home. Ready to take your kids on this festive journey? Let’s go!
Day 1: Mexico – Las Posadas
In Mexico, families celebrate Las Posadas, a nine-day journey symbolizing Mary and Joseph’s search for a place to stay. Each night, processions visit homes, singing songs and reenacting the story of Christmas.
Activity:
Set up a small procession in your house! Use dolls or toys to represent Mary and Joseph. Sing Christmas carols as you “walk” them to their final destination—a makeshift nativity scene under your tree. If you have some tea lights, place them along the path to make it magical. End with a family feast of whatever snacks you have on hand—bonus points for chips and salsa!
Day 2: Germany – Advent Calendars and Christmas Markets
Germans love their Advent traditions and cozy Christmas markets. While we can’t replicate an entire market, we can embrace their love of simple handmade decorations and treats.
Activity:
Create a DIY Advent calendar if you don’t already have one. Use envelopes, paper bags, or even sticky notes, and hide little “treasures” or notes in each. Decorate a corner of your house with string lights and ornaments you already own. To capture the Christmas market vibe, warm up some hot cocoa or cider and toast a slice of bread with butter and cinnamon—it’ll smell divine!
Day 3: The Philippines – Giant Lantern Festival
In the Philippines, the Ligligan Parul (Giant Lantern Festival) lights up the town of San Fernando with dazzling star-shaped lanterns, symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem.
Activity:
Make your own lanterns! Use paper, tape, or straws to create a simple star shape. Cover it with tissue paper or gift wrap and add fairy lights if you have them. Hang your lantern in the window to share the festive spirit with neighbors.
Day 4: Sweden – St. Lucia Day
December 13th is St. Lucia Day in Sweden, honoring the patron saint of light. Girls traditionally dress in white with candles on their heads, and everyone enjoys saffron buns.
Activity:
Dress your kids in white shirts or any light-colored clothes. Use a paper crown or headband to “hold” pretend candles (you can use paper cutouts or battery-powered tea lights). For the buns, don’t stress—toast some bread, spread with butter, and sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon and sugar.
Day 5: Italy – La Befana and Feast of the Seven Fishes
In Italy, La Befana (a kind witch) delivers gifts to children on Epiphany, while Christmas Eve features the Feast of the Seven Fishes. This feast isn’t just about the food; it’s about gathering family together. The meal is often served in courses, with plenty of wine, laughter, and sharing of Christmas traditions.
Typical dishes include:
Activity:
Pretend La Befana visited your house! Have your kids leave out a stocking and find a small treat or toy in it the next morning. For the “Feast of the Seven Fishes,” you can make a fish meal for dinner. It’s all about gathering as a family.
Day 6: Iceland – Jolabokaflod (Christmas Book Flood)
Iceland has the cozy tradition of Jolabokaflod, where families exchange books on Christmas Eve and spend the evening reading and sipping hot chocolate.
Activity:
Pick a favorite holiday book (or any book!) and have a family storytime. Gather pillows and blankets to create a reading nook. Add a cup of tea, hot cocoa, or even warm milk to complete the hygge vibe. If you’re feeling creative, make bookmarks together using paper and crayons.
Day 7: Australia – Beach BBQs and Santa in Shorts
Christmas in Australia happens in the middle of summer, so Santa swaps his sleigh for a surfboard and families head to the beach for BBQs.
Activity:
Can’t hit the beach? Bring the Aussie spirit indoors! Spread out a beach towel in the living room, grab sunglasses, and play beachy Christmas tunes (think “Mele Kalikimaka”). For food, make hot dogs or anything grilled, or just enjoy popsicles together.
Day 8: Nigeria – Christmas Masquerades
In Nigeria, Christmas is full of vibrant colors, music, and masquerades, where performers in elaborate costumes bring the streets to life.
Activity:
Make a mask using paper or cardboard, and let the kids decorate it with crayons, glitter, or even pasta noodles. Put on some festive music (you can find African Christmas songs online) and have a mini masquerade parade in your home.
Day 9: Finland – Christmas Sauna
In Finland, families often enjoy a traditional sauna on Christmas Eve as a way to relax and prepare for the holiday.
Activity:
No sauna? No problem! Recreate the calming vibes by dimming the lights, lighting a candle, and playing soothing music. Take turns sharing what you’re grateful for this Christmas.
Day 10: United States – The Gingerbread House
In the U.S., decorating gingerbread houses is a beloved Christmas tradition. It’s the perfect way to wrap up our cultural countdown.
Activity:
If you don’t have a gingerbread house kit, don’t worry—use graham crackers, cookies, or even toast as your “walls.” Spread peanut butter or frosting as glue, and decorate with whatever you have: cereal, pretzels, or even raisins. It’s all about having fun and getting creative.
Why Celebrate Christmas Around the World?
These simple activities aren’t just a fun way to count down to Christmas—they’re also a wonderful opportunity to teach kids about other cultures and traditions. Whether it’s crafting a lantern, creating a mask, or reading together, you’ll build memories that remind your family what the season is truly about: connection, joy, and love.
So, grab those everyday items, embrace the magic of Christmas, and enjoy traveling the world without leaving your home. Happy holidays, my friend! 🎄