Around the world, Christmas arrives with its own constellation of sounds, scents, and tiny rituals that make the season glow. From lantern-lit streets to midnight bells, these traditions weave families and neighbors together. Grab a mug of something warm—we’re hopping across seven countries to savor their most charming Christmas customs (and a festive bite or two).
Germany
In Germany, the season truly begins at the Christmas market: fragrant outdoor markets twinkling with lights, wooden toys, and steaming mugs of mulled wine. Advent calendars and wreaths set the rhythm at home, and on December 6, children polish their boots for St. Nicholas Day surprises. On the table: buttery Stollen, a rich fruit bread studded with dried fruit and often marzipan, finished with a snowy coat of powdered sugar.
Mexico
Mexico celebrates with Las Posadas, nine nights of candlelit processions reenacting Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter. Homes swing open for carols, piñatas, and hot ponche drink spiced with cinnamon and guava. Christmas Eve dinner—Nochebuena—often stars tamales, dough filled with savory goodness like meats, cheeses, or chiles, then steamed in corn husks or banana leaves. They are wrapped like little gifts and shared long into the night.
Iceland
Meet Iceland’s mischievous Yule Lads—thirteen playful visitors who leave treats (or potatoes!) in children’s shoes. Families exchange books on Christmas Eve for a cozy reading spree called the Jólabókaflóð (“Christmas book flood”). Festive bites range from crisp, snowflake-cut laufabrauð (ultra-thin, decorative deep-fried bread) to slices of gently smoked hangikjöt (traditional smoked lamb).
The Philippines
In the Philippines, Christmas stretches longer than anywhere—carols float through the “Ber months,” and the Simbang Gabi dawn masses lead up to Christmas. Streets sparkle with parol star lanterns, symbols of hope and welcome. After church, treat yourself to warm bibingka and puto bumbong, coconut-kissed rice cakes served with butter and sugar.
Italy
Italy’s season is rich with regional flavor and family rituals. Many observe La Vigilia on Christmas Eve, a seafood feast that keeps meat off the table before midnight mass. Gifts may arrive later from La Befana on Epiphany, a kindly witch on a broom. For dessert, slice into airy panettone, a tall, fluffy sweet bread dotted with candied citrus and raisins.
Sweden
Sweden’s St. Lucia Day (December 13) brightens the dark with candle-crowned processions and songs of light. Families gather for fika and saffron-scented lussekatter (Lucia buns), then indulge in a julbord—a Christmas smorgasbord (a generous, buffet-style spread of cold and hot dishes) of cured fish, cheeses, and warm comforts. Windows glow with stars, turning every street into a gentle constellation.
Portugal
Portugal’s Christmas glows with family warmth and candlelit traditions. On Christmas Eve—Consoada—many families share simple boiled bacalhau with vegetables before heading to Missa do Galo (Midnight Mass). The sweet table steals the spotlight: the star is Bolo-rei—a festive, ring-shaped brioche pastry with candied fruit and nuts, often hiding a lucky fava bean for the finder.
Whether your Christmas sounds like brass bands in a plaza, church bells at dawn, or laughter over a candlelit table, the heart of the holiday is the same: togetherness, kindness, and wonder. May your season be bright, your traditions meaningful, and your plate always full of something delicious. Merry Christmas!
The final gift of this season’s Gift Hunt is here!
