Christmas, the festive event that is celebrated worldwide, unfolds in each country in its own unique way. It originates from the Christian faith and is strongly influenced by Western (European and American) traditions, but has now also spilled over into other countries and cultures. The special nature of the festival is revealed in the colorful diversity of cultures, and this becomes particularly clear when exchanging ideas with international colleagues. But it is not just Christmas that shapes the festive landscape - there are plenty of other important celebrations in different religions and cultures.

Christmas around the world: a journey through festive traditions and customs 

The festive time of the year is fast approaching. But hold on - let's stop the train of festive anticipation for a moment. Because while you celebrate Christmas with Christmas trees, mulled wine and presents, this is only a small part of a much larger world full of festive traditions and customs. 

One festival, many faces

At Christmas, there are many different festivals and versions of the Christian Christmas festival, including some that break away from religion and celebrate Christmas in a different way to how we know it. Due to the large number of different customs and cultures, it is not possible to illustrate everything, but some facts that the larger cultural groups have in common are illustrated below. 

Europe: tradition meets modernity 

In Europe, Christmas is characterized by old traditions mixed with modern festivities. In Germany and Austria, Christmas markets take center stage, creating a unique atmosphere with their festively decorated stalls, delicious mulled wine and handmade gifts. In Italy, the period around Christmas is filled with richly laid tables and feasts, while in the UK the festivities are celebrated with Christmas pudding, festive roasts and royal Christmas messages. Generally, Christmas is celebrated on December 25, with many European countries also holding a special celebration on December 24 on Christmas Eve.

America: diversity in celebrations 

The USA celebrates Christmas with an impressive variety of decorations and lights. From the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in New York City to the festively lit houses in the suburbs, Americans have their own unique way of celebrating the holiday. In Mexico, the celebration begins with Las Posadas, a nine-day celebration that mimics Mary and Joseph's search for shelter. It is celebrated with processions, nativity plays and piñatas. In America, Christmas is usually celebrated on December 25th. But of course, especially in the US melting pot of cultures, there are also people who celebrate on December 24, just like in Europe. 

Asia: A mixture of tradition and modernity 

In many Asian countries, where Christmas is not necessarily a religious festival, as the majority of people there are Buddhists and the Christian faith is not so widespread, it is still celebrated. In Japan, Christmas is seen as a romantic occasion for couples, similar to Valentine's Day. The streets are decorated with lights and it is customary to enjoy Christmas with a visit to a restaurant or a walk. In South Korea, it is also a time for lovers to show their affection for each other and experience romantic moments. In Asia, Christmas is celebrated on December 25, as it is in many parts of the world. However, the way of celebrating varies greatly here. 

Africa: festive community and unique customs 

In some African countries, Christmas is celebrated with a mixture of traditional customs and Christian celebrations. The churches are usually decorated with Christmas trees, but also with balloons, ribbons and flowers. After church, a goat is slaughtered and the meat is distributed among the family members. Afterwards, people go from house to house and wish each other a Merry Christmas. It is a time of joy, eating together and celebrating. In Nigeria, streets are adorned with colorful decorations, while choirs and singing accompany the festivities. As in many other countries, Christmas is also celebrated in Africa on December 25. 

The essence of Christmas: A global celebration

Regardless of the different customs and traditions, the essence of Christmas remains the same everywhere: it is a time of joy, togetherness and generosity. The holiday reminds us to be thankful and to express our love and appreciation for those around us. Whether it is through gifts, festive meals or simply heartfelt gestures, Christmas unites people around the world in an atmosphere of love and joy. 

Festive diversity that unites  

The festive season is a great opportunity to discover and enjoy the diversity of the world. Here we not only celebrate our own traditions, but also admire the diversity of other cultures. The festive season reminds us that shared laughter, singing and celebration lie within this diversity.