Holiday Traditions from Around the World
The holiday season is packed with traditions, but have you ever wondered how different countries celebrate this magical time of year? We’ve compiled a list of holiday traditions from around the world that just may surprise you!
Christmas Fried Chicken – Japan
A bucket of chicken for Christmas dinner has become a popular holiday tradition in Japan! It started back in the 1970s, when a popular American fast-food chain launched a Christmas marketing campaign, and the crispy favorite became holiday hit! Today, many Japanese families indulge in a bucket as part of their Christmas meal.
Roller Skating to Church – Venezuela
In Venezuela, it’s common for people to roller skate to church during the holiday season. The tradition started in the capital city, Caracas, where roads are closed to cars on Christmas Eve. Instead of driving, people lace up their skates and make their way to church services. It’s now become a popular tradition across the country, and thousands of people can be seen roller skating to church in festive holiday attire.
Night of the Radishes – Mexico
Every year on December 23rd, the city of Oaxaca hosts the Night of the Radishes. It’s a festival where artists carve intricate sculptures out of giant radishes. The tradition dates to the colonial period when Spanish priests introduced the carving of nativity scenes on… wait for it… radishes! Today, the festival draws thousands of visitors from around the world who come to see the mind-blowing radish sculptures.
Hide Your Brooms! Norway
In Norway, hiding household brooms is a Christmas Eve tradition. The belief is that witches and evil spirits come out on Christmas Eve and look for brooms to ride on. To prevent any mischief, people are encouraged to stash their brooms away. Norwegians not only hide their brooms – they hide all cleaning supplies at Christmastime, just to be on the safe side!
Bad Santa – Germany
In Germany, Santa Claus is not always the jolly man we know and love. There is a tradition called “Krampusnacht,” which takes place on December 5th. It’s a night where people dress up as Krampus, a demonic horned creature, and roam the streets scaring people. The idea is that Krampus punishes children who have misbehaved, while Santa rewards those who have been good.
A Crown of Candles – Sweden
Sweden celebrates Saint Lucia’s Day, also known as the Festival of Lights, on December 13th. The holiday honors St. Lucy (Lucia in Swedish), who is admired for her compassion and generosity. According to tradition, the girl chosen to portray Saint Lucia wears a crown of candles on her head. The candles represent the light of kindness and generosity that Saint Lucia brought into the darkness, literally to the catacombs and metaphorically in times of persecution. The celebration begins the Christmas season in Swedish custom.
Photo courtesy Dr. Paul Koudounaris
Wrapping it Up
These surprising holiday traditions prove that there are countless ways to celebrate. And why not indulge in the holiday spirit at SAHARA Las Vegas? Our exceptional offerings, from luxurious accommodations to award-winning dining and a sparkling new casino, ensure that your holiday experience will be nothing short of extraordinary.
As we embark on this festive season, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to our incredible guests. From our family to yours, we wish you a holiday filled with safety, happiness, and an abundance of joy. Thank you for choosing to make memories with us at SAHARA Las Vegas.