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Christmas Eve Around the World
Christmas is celebrated in all corners of the world. What are some of the traditions that make this holiday so special?
Belgium
A long, delicious meals is prepared, focussing on fish and turkey. Dessert is a Christmas Log cake. Note that present-giving is NOT done on Christmas, which is a holy day. Presents were given on Dec 6th, St. Nicholas Day.
Finland
Homes are cleaned in preparation for Father Christmas' arrival. Many people believe that Santa and his reindeer come from northern Finland. Traditional meals include ham or turkey. Families then go to graveyards to decorate the graves of those they love. Presents are given out when they return home.
France
It is "Noel", not Christmas, in France, and presents are brought by Father Noel. Trees are extremely popular and every tree inside and outside the home is decorated.
Germany
Entire towns get decorated for the holiday season in Germany. The manger scene is found in just about every home. People go to church during the day on Christmas Eve and then open their presents later that evening. The tradition of the Christmas Tree began in Germany - it was originally called the "Paradise Baum".
Italy
Italians light a Yule Log which must then stay lit until the new year. Religious displays and manger scenes abound. A huge Christmas Eve dinner is served, focussing on fish, pork and pasta. A number of desserts and cookies are then served.
Portugal
Presents are brought and opened on Christmas Eve. The traditional meal involves boiled potatoes and cod.
Russia
Many Russians follow the old calendar and celebrate Christmas on January 7th. They will eat rich foods including pies and cakes.
Sweden
Christmas eve is for family fun and present-opening, with meals of pork and fish. Christmas Day is reserved for church.
US - Colonial
Early colonists were against religious celebration, including Christmas. But as the Dutch and Germans moved in, they brought in their love of the holiday. By the 1700s, families were eating turkey and ham, putting up a tree and sharing presents on Christmas Day. In the 1800s, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pies joined the festivities.
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