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Widely known for its diverse food and shopping attractions, Singapore is one of Asia’s most popular tourist destinations, and Christmas is a great time to visit. When it comes to the yuletide season, Singaporeans have a special style of celebration, with equal parts of tradition and commercial observance.

While the exchange of gifts, Christmas dinners, and home visits are quite common, some seasonal practices remain “uniquely Singapore.” In this piece created by our team here at Remitly, we’ll share some great ways to spend Christmas in Singapore and answer your burning questions about the holiday season in the country.

Christmas in Singapore: 7 Traditions to Try

From attending holiday markets to seeing Christmas lights, there are plenty of ways to get into a festive mood while spending Christmas in Singapore. Let’s explore some fun ways to enjoy a Singapore Christmas.

Orchard Road Light Up

Orchard Road lies at the heart of Singapore’s central shopping street. Namely, Orchard refers to a street flanked by some of the busiest retail outlets, and boutiques in the country.

During Christmas, mall owners compete among themselves to display the most eye-catching decorations. These presentations range from street-side sculptures to hanging ornaments and the occasional snowfall display made from a machine that produces artificial snowflakes.

This time of year, Singaporeans drive down Orchard Road to admire the illuminated setups or take photos as they visit the malls. One of the most famous light displays is a 16-meter-tall Christmas tree annually set up in the Takashimaya Mall.

Participating outlets may also offer discounts and other deals, making each trip highly fulfilling, especially if you plan to do some last-minute shopping for gifts.

Sentosa’s Themed Attractions

Sentosa is an island connected to mainland Singapore via a tiny causeway. This small getaway from the central city holds some of the nation’s most luxurious hotels/resorts and attractions, such as the Universal Studios Singapore (USS) Theme Park and S.E.A. Aquarium.

You can expect many fun-filled memories for the entire family during the Advent season with unique Christmas-themed programs.

In 2019, S.E.A. Aquarium (which holds one of the largest marine tanks in the world) hosted a Glowing Ocean exhibition featuring underwater Christmas light-ups in the form of bioluminescent jellyfish.

The USS theme park organizes annual Christmas events with dazzling light shows, Christmas markets, festive decorations, and colorful mascots.

Christmas Wonderland

Gardens by the Bay is one of Singapore’s most popular tourist attractions. It features towering Supertree structures that form a futuristic landscape.

Since 2014, the Gardens has held an annual Christmas extravaganza that showcases brilliant decorations, light-ups, game stalls, and stage performances.

The event presents a fairground appeal, with bright and cheery holiday setups and timeless favorites: vibrant carousels, bumper cars, and carnival games for which participants may win prizes.

Luminary light arrangements, a modern substitute for candles typically used in traditional Christmas celebrations, are some of the biggest highlights of the event.

At this celebration, various food and beverage stalls serve seasonal delights that will immerse you in the festive spirit.

As reported by Jakarta Globe, past years have seen Michelin star chefs presenting an array of selections such as cheese dishes and roasted beef. Also, you can enjoy the enchanting performances of carolers, singers, dancers, and local artists at the nearby Cassa Armonica gazebo.

Creative Christmas Buffets

Singapore is known as a culinary hub, and Christmas proves to be a popular time to stake that claim. Tourists can expect a large variety of Christmas buffets offered by hotels, restaurants, and hole-in-the-wall eateries.

Aside from the traditional servings of stuffed turkey, slices of ham, and log cakes, you can look forward to Asian fusion and culinary influences from the nation’s diverse community.

You are in for a treat with sumptuous Christmas dinners unlike any you have tasted.

Celebration at the Riverside

The Singapore River was the original site of the nation’s first trading port before the water was proved too shallow for larger shipping vessels (commercial trading eventually relocated to Keppel harbor).

These days, the quayside areas of the Singapore River serve as a popular hangout with a wide variety of eateries, clubs, and shops.

Christmas celebrations at the Singapore River provide tourists with fascinating sights and sounds from the night scene and riverside dining with interesting seasonal dishes.

Vendors provide guided boat rides with decorated vessels that travel between the bustling yuletide atmosphere from both sides of the channel, and the wonderful view of Marina Bay Sands. Enjoy the many memorable photo opportunities as you cruise down the historic waterway.

Neighborhood Caroling

Beyond commercial celebrations, Christmas is also a time of significance for many communities to celebrate the birth of hope and social gatherings. In countries that celebrate Christmas, traditions vary widely, reflecting the rich tapestry of cultures around the world. Families come together to share meals, exchange gifts, and participate in festive activities that strengthen their bonds and create lasting memories. This spirit of unity and joy transcends geographical boundaries, reminding everyone of the importance of connection and gratitude during the holiday season.

Churches throughout Singapore conduct caroling events during the yuletide season, a great opportunity to join in the reveling and retelling of the Christmas story.

To join, and celebrate Christmas singing Christmas carols, drop by St. Andrew’s Cathedral, a 186-year-old neo-gothic structure in the downtown core of the island nation, and the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, the oldest Roman Catholic Church in Singapore.

The caroling events organized by churches are open to all individuals, allowing you a chance to bask in the Christmas mood and take part in the joyful ambiance.

Attend the Great Bay Fiesta

If your ideal way to spend the festive season is attending a big celebration, head to the Great Bay Fiesta at the Bayfront Event Space at Marina Bay. Held every year in December, the event is a giant Christmas party that offers fun activities for the whole family.

Enjoy amusement rides and games at The Great World Carnival by Uncle Ringo, and check out the big top acts at The Great Cirque de Cascades. When you work up an appetite from all the festive cheer, head to The Great Food Fiesta for some delicious treats.

Begin Your Celebration at the Airport

Singapore’s award-winning airport ranks as one of the best in the world. It’s stocked with a chain of eateries and retail outlets across its four (and still expanding) terminals. Plus, the airport is another place to check those exchange rates when planning your budget.

The airport annually celebrates the season with a wide range of themed exhibitions and events you can immediately enjoy once you check into the city.

Past Christmas celebrations include the Tokidori Snow Holiday exhibition (featuring winter wonderland setups and eye-catching ornaments) and a Santa’s workshop nestled within an artificial valley.

 

Enjoy Christmas in Singapore!

While there’s no chance to witness natural snowfall in a humid tropical nation like Singapore, its unique history and exciting lineup of events are great alternatives.

Creative Christmas menus, spectacular events, and shopping experiences across boulevards with well-decked facades reflect the country’s reputation as an urban paradise.

Singapore is a place where you can fill your holiday season with delicious food, entertainment, and unforgettable sights.

FAQs

Las Posadas (Spanish for “The Inns”), celebrated every year from December 16-24 in Mexico, Latin America, and some regions of the United States, are a Catholic holiday and religious celebration. The festivity showcases the journey of Joseph and Mary, traveling from Nazareth to Bethlehem in search of a secure place for Mary to give birth.

Many Mexicans associate the word “posadas” with gatherings of loved ones throughout the winter months to sing Christmas carols, share a hearty meal, and spread festive pleasure. Read more about Las Posadas traditions and what Remitly gathered so you, too, can learn about this Mexican fiesta.

Historical Background

Las Posadas has a long history in Hispanic culture. Although it began in Spain, Mexico has been celebrating it annually for more than 400 years and is said to have begun as a way to teach native people about Christmas. Posada celebrations began in churches, and later it was celebrated at haciendas and then in family houses, becoming the current festival by the 19th century.

The Augustinian friars of San Agustin de Acolman, near Mexico City, may have started posadas. Friar Diego de Soria, the Augustinian prior, received a papal bull from Pope Sixtus V in 1586 to celebrate ‘Misas de Aguinaldo’ or ‘Christmas extra masses’ from December 16 to 24.

The tradition is said be one of many ways the Catholic Church in Mexico was altered to help indigenous people understand and integrate it. The winter solstice fell on the same day each year, which was the Aztec ritual of celebrating their god Huitzilopochtli.

Neighborhood committees now organize posadas and a different family hosts each night. Other neighbors provide food, sweets, and piñatas to share party costs with the host family.

Las Posadas Meaning

One of the most beautiful and unique parts of Las Posadas is the significant and intentional nine nights of celebrations that connect to the Nativity story as we lead up to Christmas. The nine nights represent Mary’s nine months of pregnancy, starting on December 16 and ending on December 24.

One family offers to host the pilgrims each night, and so it begins: at twilight, a group of devout people parade through the streets, many of them carrying small angels and shepherds costumes. The Los Posadas celebration includes lit candles, religious figures, and imagery.

A child dressed as an angel leads a parade across town each evening during the festival. Adults, including musicians, follow as children in silver and gold robes carry candles and models of Mary and Joseph on a donkey and visit homes to request accommodations. Again, the procession is denied lodging, but households typically provide refreshments.

Finally, travelers can enter. Prayers and music continue, and joyful treats are exchanged. The evening concludes with a star-shaped piñata.

Las Posadas Symbols

As is true for many religious celebrations, every part played has a very intentional application. This is no different here, where the parties are joyous occasions and every piece of Las Posadas symbols hold special meaning. Let’s take a look…

The participants: Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and angels

Because Las Posadas symbolize Joseph and the Virgin Mary’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem to give birth to Jesus, their presence is vital. An angel leads a pregnant Mary and Joseph through a neighborhood or village while shepherd-dressed children accompany them, indicating those who stayed with the couple before Baby Jesus’ birth.

The nativity scene, search for posada, and the role of candles

On street processions, participants carry lighted candles around a neighborhood lined with farolitos and ask for “posada” (room at the inn) by knocking on doors using a specific posada song. Local children usually dress as nativity story characters and stay closeby as the journey moves along.

 

The piñata

At the end, there is a colorful star-shaped piñata that has seven different cones to represent the seven deadly sins. The star shape depicts the Star of Bethlehem which guided the Three Wise Men and shepherds to Jesus’s place of birth, who came to worship the baby and bring him gifts. The piñata is commonly filled with candy for children to hit with a stick and break open to release the goodies that represent God’s blessings. In more old-fashioned celebrations you may find them filled with small fruits, cookies, and peanuts.

Traditional foods

Holiday food brings people together in joy and harmony. It’s the a time of year we can eat rich, warm soul food without thinking twice, and Las Posadas food and drink is absolutely some of the best.
Tamales, pozole, ponche, and churros are among the numerous symbolic Posada meals. Family and friends work together to make and roll dozens of tamales for the community, creating sense of togetherness. Pozole, a Mexican stew cooked with chicken or pork, chili spices, and garlic, provides warmth and the cozy feeling holidays can hold. Churros are as much a part of Mexican Posadas as the ritual, and they can be found in 7-star pinatas to make the kids further enjoy the activity.

Food has such an extroadinary way of bringhing people together and warming our bodies from the inside out during the holiday season.

The Nightly Processions and Songs of Las Posadas

As discussed, the procession during the nine nights leading up to Christmas Day, is what portrays the true meaning of Las Posadas. Interacting with each “innkeeper” details the struggle that Mary and Joseph had as they prepared for the arrival of Jesus. As the couple and their entourag stop at each residence asking for posada, there is standard dialogue and song.

Joseph: “In the name of Heaven I beg you for lodging, for she cannot walk, my beloved wife.”
Inside: “This is not an inn, so keep going, I cannot open, you may be a rogue.”

Joseph: “Don’t be inhuman; have mercy on us. The God of the heavens will reward you for it.”

Inside: “You can go on now and don’t bother us, because if I become annoyed I’ll give you a trashing.”

This exchange continues at each stop until they finally reach a place that allows them seek refuge.

Joseph: “May God pay, gentle folks, your charity, and thus heaven heap happiness upon you.”

Inside: “Blessed is the house that shelters this day the pure Virgin, the beautiful Mary. Enter, holy pilgrims, receive this corner, for though this dwelling is poor, I offer it with all my heart.”

In addition to the back-and-forth dialogue, the first group of neighbors asking for shelter would sing songs and the neighbors would respond in song, either denying shelter or offering their house. When thee doors finally opened, everyone sings:

Entren santos peregrinos, peregrinos,
reciban este rincón
no de esta pobre morada
sino de mi corazón.
Esta noche es de alegría
de gusto y de regocijo
porque hospedaremos aquí
a la Madre de Dios Hijo

Modern Las Posadas Celebrations

Mexican and Latin American churches and communities celebrate this festival with customs and religion. Today, a posada is any Christmas party for teachers and kids by neighborhoods or schools, and wee still celebrate Las Posadas to reenact Mary and Joseph’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem.

This Christmas observance, like many other things in Mexico, are a blend of cultures and customs that haven’t lost their distinctive Mexican flavor. Christmas is celebrated worldwide in various way, but beneath the festivitieese is the same sense of community, belonging, and quality time spent with the people you love most.

In a region as divers as Latin American countries are, Christmas traditions and consumer behavior differ significantly between markets; in Mexico, and Guatemala for example, celebrations of the holiday are held indoors, whereas in Brazil or Argentina, the focus is more on summer celebrations. Many parts of a Latin American holiday ceremony are similar to those of a Mexican Christmas, but there is more emphasis on Christmas Day in Latin American than there is in Mexico. In addition to the variations in holiday customs, central american christmas celebrations often incorporate local traditions and indigenous practices, creating a rich tapestry of festivities. Families gather for reenactments of the Nativity, piñatas, and vibrant fireworks displays, reflecting both cultural heritage and community spirit. This blend of old and new, along with the warm weather, makes these celebrations unique compared to their northern counterparts.

The Universal Message of Las Posadas

Las Posadas contains many joyful and festive moments, but they also reflect on Mary and Joseph’s difficult journey from the Bible. Joseph and Mary left Nazareth more than a week before Jesus Christ, their son was born, starting their struggles and facing great hardships—a lesson to all of us about enduring misfortune.

Whatever religion or faith, Las Posadas reflects upon important concepts such as humility, strength, detachment, charity, trust, justice, purity, joy, and generosity. In every religion on the planet, looking within and striving to improve on each of those attributes is a very spiritual endeavor.

This holiday season, let’s helop instill an appreciation for new places and traditions in your own family by teaching about posadas. Celebrations around the globe can be memorable whether you are near or far from your loved ones. Using an app like Remitly to send money for gifts related to celebrations of all kinds is a great way to share the season with loved ones.

FAQs

Ask any Filipino what their favorite holiday is, and they will likely say it’s Christmas. Filipinos love celebrating Christmas with special Christmas traditions in the Philippines. Christmas is one of the holidays everyone looks forward to the most in the Philippines.

For Filipinos who moved to other countries either to work or to immigrate, the holiday season always brings a sense of nostalgia. Although Filipinos may adapt easily to their host country’s way of celebrating holidays, some unique Filipino traditions can’t be duplicated elsewhere.

If you’re a Filipino living abroad, you’ll surely recognize and miss the things on this list created by our team here at Remitly.

Starting the Christmas Period Early

The Philippines is famous for having the longest Christmas season in the world. People begin to celebrate Christmas as early as September. During this time, cities and towns are adorned with vibrant decorations, and the sound of Christmas carols fills the air. The festive spirit is contagious, drawing comparisons with christmas celebrations around the world, yet the unique traditions of the Philippines stand out. From the enchanting parol lanterns to festive Noche Buena feasts, each aspect showcases the warmth and joy of Filipino culture during the holiday season.

Although you’re unlikely to hear people wishing each other a Merry Christmas in one of the country’s eight major languages so soon, many people do begin decorating with bright lights and Christmas lanterns as soon as the weather cools.

The fun of the holiday season continues throughout the fall. In December, Christmas cheer fills the air nearly everywhere you go, and formal celebrations are throughout the country. The festive season continues through the first week of January, with Epiphany on January 6th, and usually ends on the 9th.

Going to Simbang Gabi with Your Family

Simbang Gabi is the Philippines’ way of celebrating Advent. The tradition had its roots when Spain colonized the Philippines for over three centuries until its independence on June 12, 1898.

Simbang Gabi is a series of nine Masses starting as early as 4 a.m. on the days leading up to Christmas. The first mass takes place on December 16, and the last is on December 24, when they hold a midnight Mass to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.

If you’ve done Simbang Gabi, you undoubtedly remember your parents or grandparents waking you up early in the morning and the feeling of the cold morning air as you struggled to keep up while walking to church. They would have decorated the church with Christmas lights, and a nativity scene would always have been present.

After the Mass, plenty of street vendors are outside selling bibingka (rice cakes) and the Christmas favorite, Puto bumbong. This is a type of rice cake steamed in bamboo tubes. It’s usually purple and served with shredded coconut and brown sugar.

If the food after the Mass is not enough motivation to go to Simbang Gabi, Filipinos also believe that if you complete all nine of the Masses, a wish that you made during the first Mass will come true.

The early morning masses culminate in Misa de Gallo, or the rooster mass. It takes place at midnight after the Christmas Eve celebration and marks the official start of Christmas Day.

Decorating with a Paról

The paról is the Philippines’ version of the Christmas lantern. For Filipinos, it’s a visual representation of the Christmas spirit, a symbol of the star of Bethlehem.

You can see the paról hanging outside windows, in the streets, malls, and anywhere else you can think of. You know the holidays are near because streets will be lined with massive parols, treating people to a beautiful light show.

Traditional parols were made from a bamboo pole and papel de japòn (Japanese paper) and illuminated by candles. But as time passed, the materials evolved to include capiz shells and colorful plastic illuminated by electric twinkling lights.

Some families will decorate a paról instead of having a Christmas tree. Others decorate Christmas trees and display a paról.

Enjoying Christmas Carolers

Once the first Simbang Gabi finishes, Christmas carolers will be on their feet, going from house to house, singing Christmas songs to spread the season’s cheer.

Neighborhood children form groups and sing well-known songs like Jingle Bells, Silent Night, and Filipino Christmas songs such as Ang Pasko ay Sumapit and Christmas Bonus. Homemade instruments made from cola bottle tops or biscuit tins accompany them.

If you are happy with the Christmas carols, give them one or two pesos and wait for them to return the next night.

Carolers may also come in a more organized form, such as from your local church group or the school or office. They’ll usually send a letter beforehand informing you when they’ll visit your house. It’s expected for the host to serve snacks and give some money after listening to a medley of Christmas songs.

Celebrating “Noche Buena”

Noche Buena is Spanish for “good night.” In Spanish-speaking countries, as well as the Philippines, Noche Buena refers to Christmas Eve and the feast enjoyed that night. It’s the highlight of the Christmas celebration.

Other Latin countries celebrate Noche Buena, but in the Philippines, people eat a Noche Buena feast after hearing the night mass. Each Filipino household has its tradition of celebrating Noche Buena, and the food served is diverse.

Some of the amazing food that may have been a Christmas staple in your house include:

• Lechon (roast pig, chicken, etc.)
• Queso de bola (cheese)
• Bibingja (a rice cake made in a clay pot with coconut and sugar)
• Jamon (ham)
• Embutido (a type of meatloaf)
• Filipino-style fruit salad
• Lumpiang Shanghai (spring rolls)

Before or after Misa de Gallo on Noche Buena is also when children open Christmas presents coming from their ninongs and ninangs (godparents). Certainly, many Filipinos have memories of waking up at midnight to eat and open presents.

Christmas Parties Galore

Filipinos love to have a good time with their loved ones, and the holidays are one of the best excuses to throw parties. You’ll find parties everywhere during the Yuletide season in the Philippines.

These parties come in many permutations ​​— office Christmas parties, church Christmas parties, Christmas parties for family members, neighborhood Christmas parties… You get the idea. Each event comes complete with gift-giving, songs, games, and, of course, tables laden with mouthwatering food.

People usually come home carrying gifts, leftovers, and many memories.

Exchanging Gifts

Christmas gifts are another common part of the holiday season. Children await the arrival of Santa Claus, the jolly figure in the red suit who puts presents beneath the Christmas tree during the early hours of Christmas morning.

Gift-giving among adults is also a big part of Christmas in the Philippines. Some Christmas celebrations include Manito-Manita, a type of Secret Santa where you draw names and secretly purchase a gift for the person you get.

It’s also common for godparents, known as “ninongs” and “ninangs”, to give their godchildren (called “inaanaks”)  an aguinaldo, which is a spanish word that refers to either money or material items.

Setting Up Nativity Scenes

As in many Western countries, the nativity scene is a standard part of Christmas in the Philippines. Filipinos call them belen, after the Spanish name for Bethlehem.

Setting up a small belen in your home is a typical Filipino Christmas tradition. Some towns also host live nativity scenes with people playing the roles of the Virgin Mary, Joseph, and the Wise Men. There may even be live barn animals to make the scene more realistic.

Ringing in the New Year

New Year’s Eve, or Media Noche, is a big deal in the Philippines. People stay awake to greet each other during the first seconds of the New Year and enjoy food and fun together.

When midnight arrives, people often set off fireworks. This tradition stems from the idea that the loud noise will drive away evil spirits and usher in a prosperous new year.

Celebrating Three Kings Day and the Feast of the Black Nazarene

We’ve already said that part of what makes Christmas in the Philippines unique is how long the season lasts. Three Kings Day and the Feast of the Black Nazarene are the end of the Christmas season for many Filipinos.

Held on January 6 or the first Sunday in January, Three Kings Day remembers when the wise men traveled to visit Baby Jesus and present him with gifts. In honor of the day, people enjoy delicious food, exchange gifts, and visit with friends and family.

Observed on January 9 in Manila, the Feast of the Black Nazarene marks the day when an image of Jesus was moved from the Church of San Juan Bautista in Bagumbayan to the Saint John the Baptist Church. For the holiday, people gather in the street to attend the possession of the Black Nazarene. Then, they attend mass and say prayers.

Being with Friends and Family

Of this whole list, family and friends are what Filipinos miss the most while away from home.

Although Filipinos always miss their loved ones, Christmas, the season of togetherness and family, takes it to a new level. Filipinos try to fill this void by making new friends in their home countries and adapting to their home country’s way of celebrating the holidays.

They make phone or video calls if they have loved ones in the Philippines. Filipinos also send big Balikbayan boxes to their loved ones full of gifts, food, electronics, and more.

In addition to sending these boxes of love, gifts of money are also a way to say “I love you” and “I miss you.”

Frequently Asked Questions

From everyone at Remitly—Merry Christmas to our customers in France and around the world!

Many people in France look forward to Christmas time due to the many French Christmas traditions that make the holiday special. Here, we look more closely at how the French celebrate Christmas so that you can incorporate some French foods and festivities into your holidays.

Do People Celebrate Christmas in France?

Around 83% of French people celebrate Christmas, largely due to the country’s history. France became closely affiliated with the Catholic Church in 800 CE. After that, Catholic holidays and festivals became commonplace throughout the country.

French society has largely shifted toward the secular in the modern age. Only 18% of people attend midnight mass and other church services as a part of their Christmas traditions.

Still, Christmas in France remains an important and highly anticipated holiday. Many French people now see the season as a time for giving and enjoying the company of friends and family rather than focusing on the holiday as a celebration of the birth of Baby Jesus.

During the Christmas season, cities and villages throughout the country hold festivals and Christmas markets, and families host parties and family celebrations. These festivities are filled with joy, music, and dancing, creating a vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of the holiday spirit. In addition to the traditional celebrations, many also engage in unique customs that reflect their cultural heritage, showcasing diverse christmas traditions in brazil. From elaborate decorations to festive feasts, each celebration is a testament to the rich tapestry of community and family bonds that define this special time of year.

How do you say “Christmas” in France?

In France, Christmas is called “Noël.” The most common way to say Merry Christmas is Joyeux Noël. To pronounce the phrase, say “jwa-YOU No-ELL.”

Other appropriate greetings for the season include:

• Joyeuses fêtes (jwa-YOU fet), which literally means “happy holidays”
• Bonnes fêtes (bone fet), which literally translates to “good holidays” but means the same as “happy holidays”
• Meilleurs voeux (MAY-ur voo), which means “season’s greetings”

Although French has both formal and informal modes of speech, any of the above phrases are suitable for someone you know well or have only just met.

If you encounter someone from northern France, they may say “Nedeleg Laouen,“ which is “Merry Christmas“ in Breton, a language spoken in the Brittany region.

How is Christmas Celebrated in France?

For the French people, Christmas is a time to gather with family. Even people who do not view themselves as religious often celebrate the holiday.

In France, Christmas is a public holiday. December 25, Christmas Day, is one of the jours fériés (holidays), when most French schools, government buildings, shops, restaurants, and offices close to give employees time to spend with family.

Many communities hold festivals and special events in the days leading up to Christmas and the week between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

Common Christmas Traditions in France

Many Christmas traditions in France are similar to ones practiced in Europe and North America but with a uniquely French twist. One notable aspect is the festive meal known as the Réveillon, which often features delicacies like foie gras and bûche de Noël, a traditional yule log cake. While many of these customs mirror their counterparts across the globe, they also reflect the influence of English Christmas traditions origins, blending elements to create a distinct celebration. Additionally, the emphasis on family gatherings and the decoration of homes with lights and nativity scenes further exemplifies the festive spirit unique to French culture.

Common traditions include all of the following:

The advent calendar and advent wreath

French families often purchase an advent calendar to count down the days until Christmas, when it’s time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Many of these include daily gifts of chocolate. Grocery stores begin selling the calendars around the end of November.

In religious families, advent wreaths are also popular. They are an evergreen wreath that surrounds three purple candles, one pink candle, and one white candle.

On each of the four Sundays leading up to Christmas, a purple candle is lit, followed by a pink. Then, on the 25th, families light the white candle in keeping with the Christmas tradition.

Les crèches

Families that observe Christmas as a religious holiday often set up elaborate Nativity scenes, or les crèches, in their homes. A traditional French nativity scene includes figurines like the Baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph, and often wise men and farm animals.

Lights and decorations

Placing lights around doors and windows is common in both homes and shops in France. Most cities and villages decorate lamp posts with lights or evergreen garlands made of pine tree branches. Christmas decorations don’t follow a set color scheme. You’ll see ornaments, lights, and other decorations in every color of the rainbow.

Christmas trees appeared in France during the early 16th century, and nearly every city and town has at least one Christmas tree displayed in a public place.

Called “un sapin de noël” or “un arbre de noël,” the traditional French Christmas tree is a noble fir tree, but Nordmann and spruce are also popular choices.

Early Christmas trees in France were decorated with edible things like apples, candies, and dried cakes. Pine cones, dolls, and ribbons were also commonly used as decorations.

During the 19th century, blown glass ornaments were introduced, and they grew to become the decoration of choice for the modern French Christmas tree. However, some people still choose to decorate their Christmas tree with foil-wrapped chocolates and candies. This tradition is especially popular with French children eager to sample the treats.

Gift-giving

Giving gifts to loved ones is a traditional part of the holiday season in France. Research conducted by Statista shows that Christmas gifts are the biggest expenditure for French people during the holiday season, with an average spending of 372€ per shopper. Normally, adults exchange gifts on Christmas Eve rather than on Christmas morning.

Midnight mass

Although many French people don’t attend church services for Christmas, the Catholic midnight mass is the most popular service for those who do. French people attending midnight mass may gather with family for Christmas Eve dinner before church and then return home to continue the celebration into the wee hours of Christmas Day.

Christmas carols

Singing Christmas songs or Chants de Noël is a French Christmas tradition that many people enjoy.

Some popular holiday songs are traditional Christmas carols like “Un Flambeau, Jeannette, Isabelle” and “Il est né, le divin Enfant.” Others are secular tunes like “Petit Papa Noël” and “Vive le Vent,” the French version of “Jingle Bells.”

Learn more about the many Christmas songs that have become part of French Christmas traditions by checking out our list of some of our favorites.

Festive dining table decorations

Beautifully decorating the dining table when entertaining is a year-round French tradition, and the Christmas table in France is extra special. When you consider that Christmas Eve dinner in France can last for up to six hours, it’s easy to understand why people would want to put in the extra work to create a festive tablescape.

Often, people place three candlesticks at the center of the table to represent the Holy Trinity. The French may also finish each end of the table with a French knot. This Christmas tradition is rooted in the Middle Ages when people placed knots on table linens to keep out the devil.

Yule logs

For some families, placing a yule log in the fireplace is a key Christmas tradition. Typically made of cherry wood, the log is lit on Christmas Eve and burns throughout the holiday. Burning the log represents leaving the old year behind and is thought by some to invite good luck.

Christmas cards

To spread the Christmas spirit, many people in France send cards to friends and family. Since the advent of the Internet, this French custom has gone virtual, with some people now sending e-greetings instead of traditional paper cards.

 

Christmas in France for Kids

During the Christmas season, French kids look forward to the arrival of Le Père Noël, the French version of Santa Claus or Saint Nicholas. In some areas of France, Père Noël, or Father Christmas, makes his first visit to French children on December 6 in honor of the feast of St. Nicholas. Wearing a brown fur-trimmed cloak, he delivers candies and small gifts.

Throughout France, Père Noël also visits on Christmas Eve, leaving toys and other gifts for children. The beloved figure wears red vestments and a matching bishop’s hat for his Christmas visits. Children often place their shoes by the fireplace for Père Noël to fill with gifts, and they leave carrots for Père Noël’s donkey.

Children often write to Père Noël to ask him questions and provide a gift wish list. In 1962, France passed a law stating that any letter written to Père Noël must be answered by the country’s postal service in the form of a postcard mailed to the child.

Traditionally, Père Noël has a mean sidekick named Père Fouettard. His job was to leave onions and coal for bad children or threaten them with whips. This darker side of the Christmas tradition is no longer common in France. However, you may still see representations of him when reading about the history of Christmas in the country.

During the holiday season, French television stations run animated programs and movies for families to enjoy. Some of the most popular animated Christmas specials and movies in France include:

• “L’agenda du Père Noël” (Santa’s Address Book)
• “L’apprenti Père Nöel” (Santa’s Apprentice)
• “Le Cristal Magique du Père Noël” (Santa’s Magic Crystal)
• “L’Enfant au grelot” (Charlie’s Christmas)
• “Les Contes de Nöel” (Christmas Tales)

What is traditional Christmas food in France?

It’s common for families to enjoy a large, traditional Christmas meal for the holidays. The French also enjoy various sweet treats throughout the holiday season.

Christmas dinner in France

Although traditions vary, Christmas dinner often occurs at midnight on Christmas morning or immediately before or after mass when families attend church.

Read on to explore some traditional French Christmas food.

Cheese

Many French households include cheese on their Christmas menus. Typically, the French eat cheese after the main course and before dessert. Some popular varieties include Roquefort, brie, and Gruyere.

Foie gras

Foie gras is a duck or goose liver pâté, typically served with bread or crackers. It’s a delicacy in France and often served to bring more festive cheer to holiday celebrations.

Roast poultry

For the main course, eating roast turkey or goose is a common French Christmas tradition. As in other European countries, roast chestnuts accompany the slow-cooked poultry.

Seafood

Many French people serve seafood to make the Christmas Eve meal even more decadent. Raw oysters are popular, as is Lobster Thermidor, a dish of lobster meat cooked in a sauce containing wine, egg yoke, and brandy.

Le Bûche de Noël

This classic log-shaped, cream-filled sponge cake is iced with chocolate and decorated with marzipan mushrooms and leaves to resemble a Yule log. Usually, families eat the bûche de Noël for dessert with Christmas dinner.

La Galette des Rois

On January 6, the French celebrate La Fêtes des Rois, or Three Kings’ Day. The Galette des Rois is a traditional part of the festivities. This tart has a small figurine called a fève’ hidden inside. Whoever gets the fève’ becomes the queen or king for the day and wears a gold paper crown to show their status.

Le Nougat

For dessert, Le Nougat, a puff pastry is enjoyed—a sweet treat made with egg whites, honey or sugar, and nuts, with origins tracing back to Provence, France, where it has been a holiday favorite since the 16th century.

What are Some Great Places to Travel in France during the Holidays?

While people celebrate Christmas throughout France, some cities are particularly well known for their festivities.

Dijon

Home to multiple Michelin-rated restaurants, Dijon is a well-known haven for foodies. During the Christmas season, many restaurants offer special meals, and the entire city glows with lights.

A public ice rink is also set up at the Place de la Liberation, and train rides for children are offered at Place Darcy.

Lyon

To get into the spirit of the holiday season, Lyon hosts the Fête des Lumières. In 2023, the event will take place from December 7 through December 10.

This festival of lights includes dazzling outdoor displays, and many galleries open their doors to exhibit special works. Even residents of Lyon get in on the fun by decorating their windows.

 

Paris

Paris is known as The City of Lights year-round, but the name becomes even more fitting at Christmas. Shops are decorated for the occasion, and public Christmas markets are held in many locations.

One of the most famous markets at the Tuileries Garden includes carnival rides and musical performances.

Sarlat

Home to traditional medieval architecture, Sarlat gives visitors the feeling that they’ve stepped back in time.

In the weeks leading up to Christmas, the village in Dordogne sets up an ice-skating rink and heated chalets for warming up. After skating, you can tour a traditional Christmas market and drink mulled wine or Christmas beer. Typical food includes truffles, roasted walnuts, and foie gras.

Strasbourg

The Christmas Market in Strasbourg in the Alsace region, is arguably the most famous of the Christmas markets in France. It’s also home to the largest Christmas tree in the country. Visitors flock to Strasbourg not only for its enchanting festive atmosphere but also to experience traditional Alsatian delicacies and vibrant holiday decorations. As they wander through the market, many wonder what is weihnachten in germany, drawing comparisons between the French and German holiday customs that create a unique blend of cultures in this charming city. The market’s historic backdrop, complete with half-timbered houses, adds to the magical experience, making it a must-visit destination during the holiday season.

Previously part of Germany, the city has a long history of hosting a huge market. The oldest Christmas market in France, the event draws artisans and craftsmen from throughout the region and visitors from all over the world. In 2023, the event will take place from November 24 through December 24.

Montbéliard

Located in eastern France, Montbéliard hosts one of the most famous French Christmas markets. With more than 160 stalls, it’s by no means a small Christmas market.

In addition to providing a great place to do some holiday shopping, the market sells delicious foods and puts on a beautiful Christmas light display each year.

FAQs

You’ve often heard the phrase: “A traditional British Christmas,” or “A traditional German Christmas,” or French, Spanish, or Mexican. Every country where the holiday is celebrated feels some ownership of its traditions, from making snowmen to drinking mulled wine.

However, the Christmas that we know and love results from centuries of migration, much like the rest of our culture. Remitly has been delving into the history books to find out the origins of famous Christmas festivities.

Read on to learn what we’ve discovered about some of the most popular British Christmas traditions.

It wasn’t until the year 336 AD that the birth of Christ was first celebrated on December 25th. It is believed that Roman bishops chose the date as it coincided with several pagan and non-Christian festivals prone to excessive drinking. Eventually, the more conservative, spiritual celebration supplanted its rowdy rivals.

Around the same time, a number of hymns emerged, specifically celebrating the new festival. While there is disagreement around the very first, Jesus Refulsit Omnium (Jesus Illuminates All) became particularly popular. Penned by Saint Hilary of Poitiers in France, this 16-hundred-year-old classic is still performed by many people singing carols in the U.K.

Eating Turkey

While not the centerpiece of every Christmas dinner table around the world, turkey is a common British Christmas tradition and is popular in many European countries, North America, and parts of South America. Its journey to becoming a Christmas favorite is a combination of exploration and royal fashions.

Turkey, the bird, hails from the Americas and was domesticated by the ancient Aztecs. It was brought to England by the 16th-century explorer and politician William Strickland. Its arrival coincided with the reign of King Henry VIII, who came to develop a taste for the meat.

Turkey quickly supplanted peacock as the festive dish of choice on the king’s Christmas dining table.

Then, as now, royal fashions trickled down to the general population, and it wasn’t long before all of England was feasting on this foreign foul.

Unlike other parts of Europe, where the main meal is enjoyed on Christmas Eve, British families typically have dinner in the afternoon on Christmas Day. In contrast, Christmas traditions in France center around a festive meal that often includes dishes like foie gras, roasted meats, and elaborate desserts such as bûche de Noël. Families come together to celebrate with joy and merriment, often prolonging the celebrations late into the night. This reflects the French emphasis on community and togetherness during the holiday season.

Mulled Wine

All credit goes to the Romans for inventiveness when it comes to wine. Faced with the problem of transportation across a vast empire and storage through variable seasons without air-tight containers, they devised some imaginative solutions.

After a few years of storage, the Romans’ wine tended to become thick and had to be diluted with warm water and strained through a bag.

The resulting solution was often to boil the wine to reduce its wateriness.

During this process, they sometimes added bad wine to the better stuff to make it drinkable, and spices and honey were added for flavor. This drink was known as mulsum, which sounds and tastes remarkably similar to today’s mulled wine.

Today, mulled wine is a common accompaniment to Christmas food, like turkey and mince pies. It’s also a common European Christmas tradition enjoyed in Germany, Austria, and other countries.

Lights on Trees

The lighted Christmas tree is one of those historical curios where a figure, well known for one thing, has an unrelated claim to fame.

Martin Luther is remembered for sparking the Protestant Reformation by nailing his Ninety-Five Theses to the door of the All Saints’ Church in Wittenberg, Germany, in 1517.

The theologian’s other legacy—for which there is less solid evidence—was bringing fir trees indoors to mark Christmas.

Luther is said to have added candles to the branches of his tree to give the impression of twinkling stars.

Although they can be traced back centuries, Christmas trees didn’t join British Christmas traditions until 1800. It was then that Queen Charlotte decorated the first Christmas tree in the Queen’s Lodge at Windsor Castle.

Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria, first decorated a tree to be displayed publicly in 1840. Since then, displaying a Christmas tree each year has been a British tradition.

Father Christmas

The role of Saint Nicolas in the creation of Santa Claus or Father Christmas is well known. St. Nick is—literally—his nickname.

The real Saint Nicolas lived between the 3rd and 4th centuries and was the bishop of the Mediterranean town of Myra in modern-day Turkey.

Many claims of miracles are attributed to Saint Nicolas, but it was his gift-giving to poor children for which he would be best remembered. In later centuries, this legend would become reborn as part of the Sinterklaas or Santa Claus character.

As for when Father Christmas became incorporated into British Christmas traditions, most historians credit author Susan Warner with the introduction. In 1864, she published a children’s book entitled Carl Krinken: His Christmas Stocking, which depicted Father Christmas bringing presents to good children.

Mince Pies

Far from a universal treat, eating mince pies is really only popular in the U.K. However, they originate from much farther afield.

When 13th-century crusaders returned from their religious wars in the Middle East, they brought exotic, new foodstuffs. Some of these involved the combination of fruits, spices, and meats.

Being a nation of pie lovers, it was only a matter of time before the English wrapped a pastry case around the exotic mixture, which at that time included mutton.

Appetite for the meaty part of mincemeat pies fell off in the 19th century, leaving the sweet dessert enjoyed today. Today, mince pies are a staple Christmas food enjoyed by many families.

Crackers

The Christmas cracker is one historical Christmas tradition that can be precisely dated. Christmas crackers were invented by London confectioner Tom Smith in 1847. After selling sweets wrapped in paper, Mr. Smith spiced up the offering by adding love messages.

He then took things further by adding a small exploding mechanism, activated when two people pulled either end of the cracker. The product became known as “Bangs of Expectation.”

The sweet was eventually replaced with small gifts, and today’s cracker-pullers can expect to go home with anything from a nail clipper to a mini pack of cards.

Pulling Christmas crackers has become a part of Christmas traditions in some parts of the world, such as Australia, South Africa, and Canada. Go elsewhere, and you’ll get blank looks when you ask if it’s time to pull Christmas crackers.

Party Hats

Wearing paper crowns is a key part of the Christmas crackers tradition, but their history goes further back than pulling crackers. During the winter solstice celebration of Saturnalia, the ancient Romans wore festive crowns.

It’s unclear exactly when the paper party hat tradition arrived in the U.K., but today, many people look forward to donning one as a part of the fun on Christmas Day.

Christmas Pudding

For many Brits, nothing says “Merry Christmas“ quite like plum pudding, and the practice of preparing and eating Christmas pudding is one of the few British Christmas traditions that has its roots solely in British history.

During the 14th century, a dish called frumenty became popular. It was a porridge with beef or mutton, raisins, wine, currants, and spices. During the centuries that followed, people modified the dish, and by 1650, Christmas pudding had become a truly British tradition.

However, the Puritans thought that plum pudding was too rich and decadent and rallied for a ban on the treat during the 1660s. It wasn’t until 1714 that King George I ended the controversy by making Christmas pudding an official part of the Christmas Day meal.

Pantomines

Pantomimes are one of the British Christmas traditions that many families look forward to every year, and these comical performances date back to the Elizabethan and Stuart days.

During the 14th century, mime, spoken word, and musical performances were held at grand theaters. The British Christmas tradition slowly spread, and by the 17th century, pantomime performances were taking place throughout England.

Today, these performances usually center on children’s stories like Peter Pan, Sleeping Beauty, and Cinderella.

The Televised Christmas Speech

The Queen’s Christmas message was broadcast on TV for the first time in 1957, and ever since that first televised Christmas speech, British people have turned on their TVs during their Christmas Day festivities to see and hear the current year’s edition.

During her reign, Elizabeth II delivered the holiday Queen’s speech faithfully every year, except in 1969, she issued a written message instead. In 2022, King Charles III gave his first message.

It’s important to note that the annual Queen’s speech didn’t begin in 1958. Before it appeared on TV, the Queen sent her holiday well wishes via radio. That tradition began with her father, King George V, who was well-known for giving radio addresses. George V’s first message for the holidays took place in 1932.

Christmas Cards

Christmas cards are as common throughout the world as the Christmas carol, but the tradition started in England. Michael Maier is believed to have sent the first ever to King James I in 1611.

In 1843, Sir Henry Cole commissioned the first-ever cards to be sold publicly. John Calcott Horsley created the design, which depicted a large family raising their glasses in a toast alongside images of people giving gifts to the poor.

By the 1870s, lithograph cards with a variety of designs were available for purchase in England, and in 1874, they arrived in the U.S.

The John Lewis Advert

Watching this year’s John Lewis advert is one of the most highly anticipated British Christmas traditions.

One of the UK’s newer Christmas traditions started in 2007, when a British department store aired its first commercial. Called “Shadows,“ it featured presents and products arranged to produce a shadow image of a dog and a woman in the snow.

Many of the songs featured in John Lewis’s Christmas commercials become hits on the Billboard charts, and the popularity of the ads has caused other major retailers like Boots and Salisbury’s to come up with unique commercials of their own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Christmas is a time for giving, and for many Filipino americans, that means putting together a balikbayan box to send back to loved ones in the Philippines.

Although not strictly a Christmas tradition, the balikbayan box—also known as a balik bayan box—is often associated with the holidays, as many people send one to coincide with the season.

In this post created by our team here at Remitly, we’ll unbox the history and traditions of the balikbayan box and share tips for sending one.

What is a balikbayan box?

In North America, many people send care packages to loved ones in college or military service. Often, these boxes contain food and personal care products that the person might not be able to easily get while they’re away from home.

Think of the balikbayan box as a sort of care package—only the recipient isn’t the person who is away. In the case of these unique gift boxes, an ex-pat who’s moved away from the Philippines sends the box back home to give their loved ones a special treat.

In Tagalog, the national language of the Philippines, balikbayan is a combination of two words: balik, which means to return, and bayan, which means homeland. The term refers to a Filipino who was living abroad and is now returning to the Philippines.

Sending a balikbayan box has become an important part of filipino culture. More than 7 million boxes travel to the Philippines every year, and the balikbayan box industry is estimated to be as large as $1 billion.

What’s the history of the balikbayan box?

The history of the balikbayan box dates back to the 1970s. At that time, staggering unemployment rates led many Filipinos to search for work outside the Philippines.

In the late 1980s, the Philippine government introduced an initiative that lowered the cost of airfare, provided discounts for hotel stays, and significantly boosted baggage allowances.

Many Filipinos took advantage of the cheap cost of travel and began returning home for visits more frequently, especially during the Christmas season. Because they could bring so much luggage, they stopped carrying suitcases and began toting a large box full of gifts for their families. This new trend not only strengthened family ties but also allowed Filipinos to share pieces of their lives with loved ones back home. As they navigated the blend of their own customs and the vibrant Christmas traditions in the Dominican Republic, they brought back unique souvenirs and stories that enriched the holiday experience. These exchanges fostered a deeper appreciation for the diverse ways families celebrate together, regardless of distance.

Thus, the balikbayan box was born.

During the 1990s, the cost of shipping freight from USA fell dramatically. Suddenly, sending a balikbayan box home to family and friends became affordable, and many Filipino ex-pats seized the opportunity.

Those who couldn’t make it home for Christmas shipped a cardboard box, and people slowly began mailing the balikbayan boxes at other times of the year.

What do you put in a balikbayan box?

So, just what goes into a balikbayan box? Typically, people pack commonplace items in the U.S. and Canada but are tricky to find in the Philippines.

Some popular gifts include:

• Chocolates and candies
• Spam, tuna, corned beef, and other canned goods and non-perishable food
• Dry goods like oatmeal, pasta, and instant coffee
• Toiletries like toilet paper, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, body lotion, and bar soap
• Cosmetics and beauty product samples
• Collectible items
• Vitamins and supplements
• Bedding
• T-shirts, especially ones that bear Western brand logos or souvenir shirts printed with names of places
• Underwear for men, women, and kids
• Magazines, even outdated ones
• Household items like blankets, throw pillows, and home decor
• Small kitchen appliances, both new and gently used
• Gifts for kids like Barbie dolls and LEGO sets
• Happy Meal toys from McDonald’s
• Shoes, specifically athletic shoes from big brands like Nike and Adidas

Often, senders decide what to include in a balikbayan box based on shippers, discussions they have with their families, and the box size, and it’s common to include items that loved ones have requested.

Although this removes the element of surprise, it ensures recipients get the things they need and want.

 

Are there any restricted items that you can’t include in a balikbayan box?

Most shipping companies won’t allow you to send hazardous things like firearms, lighter fluids, and cleaning products containing certain chemicals.

Depending on the carrier, some flammable products like perfume and nail polish require special handling and may increase the cost of shipping the box.

In addition, laws in the Philippines prohibit including items related to gambling like loaded dice, prescription medications, illicit drugs, or obscene items like pornographic magazines.

It’s also important to consider the number of items you ship. If you send too many of one thing, the item may be considered commercial quantities rather than intended for personal use.

For example, you can send a few cans of Spam, but a whole case may be prohibited.

In this case, the Bureau of Customs may assess duties and importation taxes that your family members would be responsible for. Rules change frequently, so it’s best to check customs regulations before you send your box.

Generally speaking, the following are some prohibited items that you may want to avoid when sending balikbayan boxes:

• Toxic and hazardous goods that contain harsh chemicals
• Gold and other precious metals
• Adulterated or misbranded food
• Sweepstakes tickets
• Replica designer clothing, shoes, handbags, and accessories that violate the intellectual property code

Although not items prohibited by law or carrier rules, very fragile items are also not the best options when sending balikbayan boxes to the Philippines due to the high risk for damage.

Consult the freight forwarder of your choice before shipping balikbayan boxes for a full list of prohibited items.

It’s important that you don’t include any prohibited items, as illegal importation of goods can result in fines and fees as well as the destruction of your balikbayan box.

What’s the best way to pack a balikbayan box?

Balikbayan boxes contain plenty of special goodies, and you’ll want to pack your box carefully to prevent those items from being damaged.

To pack a balikbayan box properly, follow these tips.

Choose the right box

Balikbayan boxes tend to be heavy, so you need a strong box to hold everything without breaking. As a result, it’s best to buy a new box in the size you need rather than reusing an old empty box that you have around the house.

Some people like to place an empty box inside another to increase strength and provide an extra layer of insulation that guards against breakage.

Use fabrics as cushioning

Place soft items like clothing and linens on the bottom, top of the box, and sides. Padding the box this way creates a cushion that reduces the risk of breakage while sparing you the expense of packing materials like bubble wrap and air cushions.

Put heavier objects on the bottom

Put the heaviest items on top of clothing and fabric items. Keep lighter things that are more likely to break, like pasta or cereal, on the top to avoid crushing.

Place items that might leak in bags

Place lotion, gel, cream, and liquid items in plastic bags with zip closures like Ziploc bags to prevent messes if anything leaks. Wrap ceramic, porcelain, and glass items in old newspapers to protect them from breakage.

Include a packing list

Compose a list of everything in the box. Print two copies and place one on top of the items inside before you seal it, and keep the other copy for yourself in case anything goes missing during transit.

Use quality packing tape

Purchase packaging tape designed for boxes rather than duct or masking tape, which may come loose while in transit. Seal the top and bottom central seams, cut the tape long enough to wrap over the sides, and anchor the tape. Run your fingertips over the tape to seal it.

 

​​Do you wrap the items inside a balikbayan box?

Presentation is an essential part of gift-giving in the Philippines. While there are no etiquette rules about wrapping paper colors for Christmas presents, wrapping gifts you’re handing to someone in person is customary.

However, wrapping is less important for a balikbayan box, and people generally don’t expect things shipped overseas to be gift-wrapped.

But that’s not to say you can’t wrap your balikbayan gifts. Consider wrapping the individual items inside if you send a balikbayan box as a holiday gift, or if you’re double-boxing, you could gift-wrap the inner box.

Keep in mind that customs officials might open your box during transit. It is a rare practice to open every box, but the Bureau of Customs has the right to do so.

Normally, customs officials will only unseal a balikbayan box if they see something suspicious when x-raying the shipment.

How do you ship a balikbayan box?

If you’re in the U.S., you could send a balikbayan box through the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). That said, the USPS places limits on the maximum size and weight of international mail.

The weight limit to ship items to the Philippines is 40 to 70 pounds, depending on the service used, and rates tend to be very expensive.

There are also especialized balikbayan box companies, so a more affordable option is using a freight company specializing in delivering balikbayan boxes to the Philippines. There are four major providers:

• Forex: Based in the U.S. and ships from all 50 states
• Atlas: Based in the U.S. and ships from all 50 states
• Infinity Balikbayan Cargo (IBC): Based in Austria and ships from Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Czech Republic, and Slovenia
• LBC Express: Based in the U.S. and ships from all 50 states

All four shipping companies offer pick-up services, so you don’t need to leave home to get your balikbayan box on its way. In addition to helping you send boxes, these shipping agencies can help you complete the balikbayan information sheet for declaring the contents of your box.

In some cases, an additional fee for pickup services might apply.

Do I have to pay fees to send balikbayan boxes in addition to the shipping fee?

Whether or not you will have to pay additional fees depends on a few factors. The Customs and Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) created a duty-free balikbayan box privilege. It allows people who meet the criteria for Qualified Filipino While Abroad status to send balikbayan boxes up to three times per calendar year duty-free.

To be considered a Qualified Filipino While Abroad and avoid the duty and import tax, you must fall into one of the following categories:

• Resident Filipinos: People who live in the Philippines but have temporarily relocated abroad through an international visa program like an inventor or student visa
• Non-resident Filipinos: People who have permanent residence in another country but have retained Filipino citizenship. These individuals may hold a foreign passport rather than one issued by the Philippines.
• Overseas Filipino workers: People who hold a special Philippine passport for working abroad

If you qualify for the balikbayan box privilege, you will need to fill out an official balikbayan box information sheet. You can obtain this declaration form from your shipping agency.

Under the rules for sending balikbayan boxes duty-free, you can send an unlimited number of boxes in your shipment. However, each balikbayan box must be under 0.20 cubic meters in size.

There are also limits on the total value of balikbayan boxes you can send each year. The total value cannot exceed PH 150,000.

If you send valuable items in your cargo box, you may be asked to provide receipts to establish their worth. You may not have to provide receipts for other personal effects and household items. Your cargo company can advise you on what documentation is necessary for sending your balikbayan box to the Philippines.

As previously mentioned, the Philippine government also prohibits you from sending a commercial quantity of any item.

If you don’t qualify for the balikbayan box privilege, you will likely have to pay taxes, such as an excise tax and a duty and import tax. Your shipping agency can provide you with more information about taxes and fees.

How long does it take to ship a balikbayan box to the Philippines?

The time it takes for a balikbayan box to reach the Philippines varies by carrier and whether you send it by ocean or air.

Forex advertises that it takes 35 days for a balikbayan box to get from Los Angeles to Manila by the ocean as sea cargo and nine days to travel by air cargo. It may take more time to arrive if you arrange a pickup service from your home, regardless of whether you choose sea or air freight.

 

FAQs

Christmas is celebrated in many parts of the world, but where and how people celebrate can vary widely. While you might picture twinkling lights, festive dinners, and gift exchanges on December 25, each place brings its own mix of culture, religion, and customs. From traditional nativity scenes in Italy to festive beach barbecues in Australia, Christmas traditions around the world show how people everywhere connect with loved ones.

Exploring these differences can help you appreciate global diversity, and it may even give you ideas for your own celebration. In this Remitly guide, we’ll explore which countries celebrate Christmas, how they do so, and the traditions that make the season unique in each place.Is Christmas celebrated worldwide?

While Christmas is recognized across much of the globe, it isn’t celebrated everywhere, or in the same way. Of the world’s 197 countries, around 160 observe Christmas in some form. In some nations, it’s a national holiday rooted in religious tradition, while in others it’s more cultural or commercial.

In Japan and China, people focus more on festive lights, decorations, and gift giving than on religious observance, giving you a chance to enjoy the holiday’s cultural side. In contrast, some countries with large Christian populations may not mark December 25 as an official holiday, but families still gather to share meals and traditions. Celebrating Christmas traditions in Japan often includes unique practices, such as enjoying a special meal of fried chicken or indulging in delicious Christmas cakes. While the holiday is not rooted in religious beliefs, it has become an occasion for couples to exchange gifts and spend quality time together. This blending of Western customs with local flavors creates a distinctive holiday experience that reflects Japan’s cultural tapestry.

For immigrants and expats, learning about these variations can make the season feel more familiar. Exploring local customs while also holding onto traditions from home creates a bridge between cultures—helping you celebrate in a way that feels both new and comforting, no matter where you are.

Countries where Christmas is a major public holiday

Christmas often includes public holidays, school breaks, festive markets, and national traditions. Here’s a regional look at how Christmas is celebrated around the world.

Europe

Europe is home to some of the world’s most enduring Christmas traditions, each offering a unique way to experience the season.

United Kingdom

In the UK, Christmas is full of traditions, centered on family, food, and festive gatherings. Towns host Christmas markets, or fayres, filled with gifts, crafts, and entertainment like live music and fairground rides. Mulled wine and mince pies are popular treats, while pantomimes—interactive, comedic theater performances based on traditional tales—bring a playful energy to the season.

The day after Christmas, Boxing Day, is often spent relaxing, shopping, or enjoying sporting events, with some communities participating in charitable traditions like the chilly “Boxing Day Dip,” where participants brave icy waters for a good cause.

Germany

Many consider Germany the birthplace of the Christmas market. Cities like Nuremberg, Dresden, and Cologne host famous Weihnachtsmärkte, filling town squares with lights, the scent of Lebkuchen (gingerbread) and roasted almonds, and stalls selling ornaments and handcrafted gifts. 

On Christmas Eve, shops stay open until midday for last-minute shopping, and families decorate their trees with Christmas lights and ornaments, enjoy festive meals, and exchange gifts.

Children celebrate Nikolaus on December 6 by leaving shoes out to receive sweets and small gifts from St. Nicholas, a tradition that adds an early touch of holiday cheer. Advent calendars, concerts, and tree-lighting ceremonies contribute to a strong sense of community during the season.

Italy

In Italy, Christmas combines religious tradition with communal celebration. Nativity scenes, or presepi, appear in homes, churches, and public squares, sometimes with life-sized figures. Streets come alive with Christmas markets, music, choirs, and bands, creating a warm sense of community. 

La Vigilia, or Christmas Eve, is a cherished tradition where families enjoy a meal focused on fish and seafood—the Feast of the Seven Fishes. Dishes like baccalà, seafood salad, or pasta with clams bring families together to share both food and faith. Across towns and villages, music, decorations, and festive markets create a lively holiday atmosphere.

France

French Christmas traditions combine faith, food, and festive charm. Advent calendars help children count down to December 24, when Père Noël brings gifts, often placed under the tree. Since 1962, the postal service guarantees a reply to every letter sent to Père Noël, adding a playful touch for children.

The Réveillon, a long Christmas Eve meal, features regional specialties such as oysters, foie gras, and the bûche de Noël (Yule log cake). Markets, from Strasbourg to Provence, fill streets with lights, artisanal gifts, and mulled wine, while hand-painted nativity figurines highlight local customs and community pride.

The Americas

In the Americas, Christmas is celebrated with a mix of local traditions, festive decorations, and family gatherings that vary widely by country.

United States

Across the US, Christmas is associated with festive lights, parades, and community events. Many towns go all out, transforming streets and neighborhoods into winter wonderlands, while cities like New York and Chicago are famous for public displays, including the Rockefeller 

Center tree lighting and department store holiday windows.

Seasonal foods often feature roasted turkey or ham and a variety of desserts. Families decorate trees, hang stockings, and gather for holiday meals, while communities host Christmas markets, craft fairs, and tree-lighting ceremonies, creating a festive atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.

Mexico

In Mexico, Christmas celebrations span from December 12 to January 6. The season begins with Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe, honoring Mother Mary’s appearance to Juan Diego, with singing, dancing, and the Blessing of the Roses at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

From December 16 to 24, Las Posadas processions re-enact Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, ending each evening with food, piñatas, and celebration. Families create elaborate nacimientos (nativity scenes), adding figurines throughout the season: the baby Jesus is placed on Christmas Eve, and the Three Kings arrive on January 6. Town centers often feature candlelit processions, fireworks, and music.

Brazil

Brazil’s Christmas traditions reflect Portuguese culture, along with influences from German, Italian, and Spanish immigrants. Large family meals on Christmas Eve last for hours and include roast turkey, ham, seafood, and farofa, a traditional Brazilian cassava flour dish.

Papai Noel, Brazil’s version of Santa Claus, arrives on Christmas Eve. Children leave socks by the tree, and Papai Noel exchanges them for presents by morning. In Rio de Janeiro, Lagoa’s floating Christmas Tree, one of the largest at 279 feet, draws many spectators and marks the unofficial start of the summer holiday season.

Africa

African Christmas traditions often blend Christian observances with local culture.

Ethiopia

Ethiopians celebrate Christmas, or Ganna, on January 7 according to the Julian calendar. Families start the day with a special religious service at dawn, often held in rock-hewn churches or open-air spaces. Participants wear traditional white cotton robes called shamma and carry candles in processions.

After the service, families gather for meals featuring doro wat (spicy chicken stew), injera bread, and other traditional dishes. Communities also celebrate with music, dancing, and friendly sports competitions, especially a local hockey-like game called genna, reflecting both spiritual and social traditions.

Nigeria

Christmas in Nigeria mixes Christian rituals with community celebrations and festive fun. Church services are central, with choirs performing traditional carols and contemporary songs. 

Families prepare special meals, including roasted meats, jollof rice, and local delicacies like moi moi (bean pudding). Streets, shopping centers, and hotels are decorated with lights, banners, and Christmas trees, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Oceania

In the Southern Hemisphere, Christmas coincides with summer, creating unique traditions.

Australia

Christmas in Australia often involves outdoor celebrations like beach gatherings, picnics, and barbecues. Traditional European foods like roast turkey are sometimes replaced or complemented by seafood, salads, and chilled desserts.

If you visit cities like Sydney or Melbourne, you can enjoy spectacular light displays, carol concerts, festive markets, and Santa parades. Many Australians maintain European-inspired traditions, including decorated Christmas trees and nativity scenes, while adding local touches like summer sports or surf-themed decorations.

New Zealand

Like Australia, New Zealanders celebrate Christmas in warm weather, enjoying barbecues, trips to the beach, and festive picnics. Local towns host Christmas parades, markets, and concerts, often incorporating Māori and Pacific Islander cultural elements.

European traditions like decorated trees and gift exchanges coexist with unique local customs, such as Santa arriving on a surfboard, blending traditional and contemporary fun.

How Christmas is celebrated in non-Christian majority countries

Even in countries where Christianity isn’t the main religion, you may see people celebrating Christmas through commercial or cultural events.

Japan

In Japan, Christmas is celebrated like Valentine’s Day, with couples exchanging gifts, going on dates, and enjoying festive city decorations. A fun tradition is eating KFC on Christmas. Originally a marketing campaign from the 1970s, it’s now a favorite seasonal tradition, with 58 percent of the Japanese population eating fried chicken each year on Christmas.

India

Christmas, or Bada Din, is celebrated across India, especially in regions with larger Christian populations like Kerala, Goa, and Nagaland. Midnight mass, carol singing, and nativity plays blend with local foods such as bebinca, a coconut milk cake, and neoreos, deep-fried pastries stuffed with coconut, dried fruits, and nuts. Christmas markets and night bazaars offer festive decorations, sweets, and artisan crafts.

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Christmas isn’t a public holiday in the UAE, but cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi host markets, lights, and public events, catering largely to expatriates. It’s popular to order a takeaway turkey from luxury hotels, cafes, and restaurants to enjoy from home. These often come with sides, including vegetables, gravy, and cranberry sauce.

Countries that do not officially celebrate Christmas

Some countries don’t recognize Christmas as a public holiday, often due to religious or cultural norms.

For example, in Afghanistan and Saudi Arabia, where Islam is the dominant religion, there are no public observances of Christmas, although private gatherings may occur among foreign residents and Christian minorities. Likewise, in Morocco and Pakistan, Christmas is observed by Christian minorities but not recognized nationally.

In China, Christmas is not an official holiday, but major cities like Shanghai display festive decorations and host commercial celebrations.

Even in these countries, you may still see Christmas decorations in shopping centers or small communities in December, but celebrations are limited compared with countries that celebrate Christmas as a national holiday.

A season of global connection

Christmas around the world provides a window into global culture. Whether it’s public holidays in Europe or the Americas, community traditions in Africa, or commercial celebrations in non-Christian countries, the season reflects a rich blend of cultural, religious, and community practices.

No matter where you are, the holidays are often about joy, togetherness, and generosity. 

Exploring how different countries celebrate Christmas can give you a deeper appreciation for global diversity—and may inspire new ways to celebrate with your own family or friends. For instance, in the Philippines, Christmas is celebrated with a unique blend of festivities, highlighting the warmth and joy of Filipino Christmas traditions and customs. These include the enchanting Simbang Gabi, a series of dawn masses leading up to Christmas Day, and the vibrant parol lanterns that illuminate the streets. By understanding these varied customs, we can enrich our own holiday experiences and foster a sense of connection across cultures. In addition to the Philippines, there are also unique Christmas traditions in Singapore, where the festive season is marked by dazzling light displays along Orchard Road and vibrant Christmas markets. The fusion of cultures in Singapore creates a rich tapestry of celebrations that includes Christmas caroling and the iconic Santa Claus, bringing together diverse communities in joyous celebration. By embracing these global traditions, we can create a more inclusive holiday experience that honors the essence of Christmas around the world.

FAQs

Which Asian countries celebrate Christmas?

Countries like Japan, India, South Korea, the Philippines, and Singapore observe Christmas, though the style of celebration varies—from commercial and romantic in Japan to religious and community-focused in the Philippines and India. In the Philippines, Christmas celebrations are marked by unique customs such as the “Simbang Gabi,” a series of dawn masses leading up to Christmas Day, and the vibrant “parol,” a star-shaped lantern symbolizing hope and light. For those curious about these customs, the phrase ‘philippine christmas traditions explained‘ captures the essence of these rich cultural practices that bring communities together. Each celebration showcases the deep-rooted values of family, faith, and joy that resonate throughout the holiday season.

Do all European countries celebrate Christmas?

Most European countries celebrate Christmas in some form, but public holiday status and customs vary. Germany, Italy, and the UK have longstanding traditions, while countries like Turkey have smaller Christian populations and fewer public observances.

How many countries recognize Christmas as a public holiday?

Around 160 out of 197 countries recognize Christmas in some way, from official national holidays to cultural and commercial celebrations.

What foods are commonly enjoyed during Christmas in different countries?

Families enjoy local flavors and traditional dishes during Christmas. Germany has stollen (fruit bread) and sausages; Italy features seafood on Christmas Eve; Mexico enjoys tamales and ponche; Australia often celebrates with barbecues or seafood during summer.

Are Christmas markets only in Europe?

While Europe is famous for its Christmas markets, they also exist in North America, Asia, and parts of the Middle East. Markets typically feature handmade gifts, seasonal treats, and festive decorations, letting you enjoy local culture and holiday cheer.

Whether you live in Japan or are a visitor, December is a great time of year to experience unique Japanese Christmas traditions. If you’ve grown up celebrating Christmas in Western countries, some of these customs may look a bit different to you. Christmas in Japan has more in common with Christmas in South Korea, which evolved from a Christian observation to a more secular one.

Keep reading this Remitly guide to learn about popular activities during the Christmas season, as well as some special traditions to take part in on Christmas Eve.

What is the History of Christmas in Japan?

Shintoism and Buddhism are the most common religions in Japan, with only 1.5% of the population identifying as Christian. But that doesn’t mean the Japanese don’t recognize Christmas. Rather people in Japan celebrate Christmas as a secular day rather than a religious holiday.

There’s no such thing as a “traditional” Japanese Christmas, but the small population of Christians that live in the country have celebrated it for centuries. In 1552, a missionary named Francis Xavier held the first recorded Christmas celebration in the country. He officiated a church service and then donated to poor farmers in the area surrounding his mission.

Under the Tokugawa Shogunate military government, which ruled from 1603 to 1868, Christianity was forbidden in Japan. Anyone practicing the religion could face crucifixion and other means of execution.

As a result, Christians worshiped in secret and were unlikely to hold Christmas celebrations. In 1873, the Meiji government eliminated the ban, allowing Christians to celebrate openly.

It was during the 20th century that Christmas really took off in Japan. A luxury grocery store called Meijiya made headlines in 1904 by displaying a Christmas tree in its window. The trendy shop inspired competitors to do the same in the following years.

After World War II, Christmas continued to grow in popularity throughout the country. When the Japanese economy boomed during the 1980s, gift-giving during the holiday season became a way to show one’s status and connections to Western culture.

How do you say “Merry Christmas” in Japan?

In Japan, they call Christmas “Kurisumasu,” and the phrase for “Merry Christmas” is “Merii Kurisumasu.” The phrase is a phonetic pronunciation of the English greeting. To pronounce it, say “MAY-ree KU-ree-sue-mah-sue.”

In the katakana writing system, “Merry Christmas” is written as メリー クリスマス. The hiragana characters are めりーくりすます.

Is there a Santa Claus in Japan?

Santa Claus has become an icon of the holiday season in Japan. This is primarily due to marketing campaigns that use the image of the jolly man in a red suit to promote sales and products. Japanese people refer to him as “Santa-San” or “Mr. Santa.” His name is written as サンタさん in hiragana and サンタクロース in katakana.

Many Japanese parents incorporate the Santa Claus tradition into their Christmas celebrations. Japanese children write letters to Santa. In 2020, the overseas courier service ANA Group even loaded an airplane with 800,000 letters and flew them to Savalen, Norway, where Santa waited with his sleigh to accept them.

Santa isn’t the only one who brings gifts for children. Kids may also receive presents from Hotei, one of the shichifukujin, or Seven Lucky Gods. Sometimes called the laughing Buddha, Hotei is a joyful, pot-bellied figure who carries a magical sack filled with unknown objects. Hotei is a protector of children, and some Japanese people include presents from him as a part of the Christmas season.

 

How do Japanese People Decorate for Christmas?

North American and European cultures inspire Christmas decorations in Japan. Many businesses and families decorate artificial trees with ornaments, bells, and candy canes, but a Japanese Christmas tree may also feature paper fans, origami birds and animals, and paper lanterns.

Stores sometimes get creative with their Christmas trees. They may hang merchandise from the branches or arrange goods for sale in pyramid displays and decorate them as if they were trees.

In Japan, Christmas lights are also commonly hung in public places. In Tokyo, the entire Marunouchi neighborhood glows with lights. Special festivals of lights are held at the Caretta Shiodome and Country Farm Tokyo German Village.

The cities of Osaka, Nagoya, Kobe, Kanagawa, Sapporo, and Kyoto also host light displays. Typically, LED string lights are used to provide festive lighting, but some locations incorporate traditional lanterns.

How do Japanese People Celebrate Christmas?

In many parts of the world, Christmas is a time for family, and New Year’s is for celebrations with friends. Japanese people celebrate the winter holidays in opposite ways.

Japanese people typically view Christmas as a romantic holiday for couples. This is similar to how South Korea celebrates Christmas, with the holiday closely resembling Valentine’s Day. Young couples may go out for dinner or spend the holiday at a Christmas party.

Christmas is not a public national holiday in Japan, so Japanese people often work during the day and then have a special dinner with their romantic partner at night.

Many schools begin winter break on December 25, so children are usually off for the day. Couples with children may make Christmas Day a festive occasion for their little ones instead of having a romantic evening together.

Some families organize large parties and invite classmates to attend. Tokyo Disneyland has parades and performances throughout November and December, and many Japanese people visit the theme park to get into the spirit of the holiday.

New Year’s Day is when families come together under one roof to share a meal. Many businesses close for this public holiday so employees can spend it with loved ones.

Do Japanese people give gifts for Christmas?

Gift-giving plays an important role in Japanese culture throughout the year, so it’s no surprise that it’s common at Christmas. In fact, the winter season is perhaps the busiest time to visit shopping malls and shopping centers.

The people of Japan are known for giving gifts to loved ones, friends, and business contacts. If you’re celebrating Christmas there, knowing the etiquette surrounding giving, receiving, and exchanging gifts is important.

• Always hold a gift in both hands when offering it to someone.
• The value of the gift value should match social status. For example, your boss should receive a more expensive gift than a coworker.
• Giving gifts in pairs or in sets of three or eight is considered lucky. Giving gifts in sets of four is unlucky.
• Accept a gift with both hands and say thank you.
• Wait to open a gift immediately upon receiving it. Set it aside and open it later, in private.
• Packaging is important. Use attractive gift wrap and a bow, or place the gift in a decorative bag. You can make your gift more traditional by using furoshiki, a fabric wrapping paper. Avoid gift wrap in the color red, which is associated with funerals in Japan. Green, a symbol of good luck, is a good color choice for gift wrap.
• Prepare for refusal. Japanese people may refuse to accept a gift one, two, or even three times before taking it. To appear modest, you should politely decline the first time, too.

In addition to Christmas gifts, the Japanese also give winter gifts called “Oseibo” between late November and December 20. Giving a winter gift is customary to show gratitude to people in your life.

Anything consumable or useful, like food, snacks, wine, beer, candles, soaps, and toiletries, is commonly exchanged for Oseibo. Steer clear of anything associated with work, like stationery.

 

What are Japan’s Traditional Christmas Foods?

Modern Japanese Christmas traditions do include food, but meals are often shared between couples rather than among large gatherings of friends and family.

What is the Most Popular Meal for Christmas in Japan?

If you want to celebrate the holiday in the most popular way, plan to get KFC for Christmas dinner in Japan.

In the 1970s, the fast-food retailer launched an ad campaign encouraging Japanese people to split a bucket of fried chicken as a Christmas meal. It turned out to be wildly successful, and now, around 3.6 million people in Japan eat KFC (formerly known as Kentucky Fried Chicken) for Christmas every year. Fried chicken is the most popular holiday food, with 58.2% of the Japanese population eating it yearly.

Due to the popularity of its chicken, KFC, and other retailers typically require advance orders for the holidays. When they don’t, they may have lines out the door, leaving those who didn’t plan ahead waiting hours to buy fried chicken.

A KFC holiday dinner usually includes either fried chicken pieces or whole-roasted chicken plus sides. It also typically comes with a beverage called “Chanmery.” A favorite with kids, this beverage combines a champagne-style carbonated drink and grape juice and usually comes in whimsical packaging decorated with cartoon characters.

What are Some Sweet Japanese Christmas Foods?

KFC isn’t the only thing on the menu for Japanese families during Christmas. Almost as popular is the Christmas cake, a two-layer white sponge cake with whipped cream icing. Strawberries decorate the top, and some bakers also add them to the filling.

The color scheme of these classic Christmas cakes represents the Japanese flag. The strawberry shortcake emoji ???? found in the standard emoji library is based on this Christmas treat.

In addition to Japanese Christmas cake, many people eat wagashi for Christmas. These small sweets are typically enjoyed with a cup of green tea. There are dozens of kinds, but some of the most well-known are mochi rice cakes, sweet white bean paste nerikiri, sweet potato paste, imo yokan, and mitarashi dango rice dumplings. For the holidays, you will sometimes find wagashi shaped like Christmas trees, Santa, reindeer, and snowmen.

4 Unique Christmas Traditions in Japan

Now that you know what to expect from Christmas in Japan, what Japanese traditions should you put on your to-do list? Here are six of the most popular ways to celebrate while visiting the island nation, including some familiar activities with a unique spin.

 

Now that you know what to expect from Christmas in Japan, what Japanese traditions should you put on your to-do list? Here are six of the most popular ways to celebrate Christmas in Japan, including some familiar activities with a unique spin.

1. Visit a German Christmas Market.

One of the unique things about Christmas in Japan is that you’ll find cultural influences from all over the world. Some of Japan’s popular Christmas traditions come from Germany, including the Christmas markets everywhere from Osaka to Yokohama. You can enjoy mulled wine, bratwurst, gingerbread, and more.

Two of the biggest markets are the Tokyo Christmas Market, located in Hibya Park and sponsored by the German Tourism Association, and the Munich Christmas Market in Sapporo, both running for several weeks each December. If you want to ice skate, eat warm and hearty German-style Christmas food, or take the kids to sit for a photo with Santa, this is the place to go.

2. Listen to Beethoven’s Ninth.

Music is a big part of Christmas culture worldwide, but Japan has a unique musical Christmas tradition. Instead of popular Christmas carols, the centerpiece is Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony called Daiku, the Japanese word for “Ninth.”

You may hear the Ninth playing on department store speakers, but to fully embrace this tradition, attend a live choral performance or even sing in it yourself. The SUNTORY 10,000 Freude choir in Osaka includes over 10,000 performers of all ages.

According to National Geographic, the Daiku tradition began during World War II when German prisoners of war introduced the song to a Japanese audience. This exchange of German and Japanese culture led to a long-standing tradition in Japan.

 

3. See the Winter Illuminations.

You don’t have to look hard to find Christmas lights in Japan, but some places are more lit up than most. Train stations are some of the best spots to see the illuminations.

Kyoto Station is famous for the large Christmas tree in the atrium and the LED lights on the grand staircase, while the iconic Arashiyama walkways are lit up with lanterns. The Tokyo districts of Roppongi and Harajuku are also decked out with winter illuminations, and Tokyo Station has a massive display of its own.

4. Visit Tokyo Disneyland.

If you don’t find enough holiday spirit while wandering the streets of Tokyo or Kyoto, you can spend Christmas at Tokyo Disneyland. This Disney theme park opened in 1983, and it celebrates the season with almost two full months of activities in November and December.

Japanese children and tourists come here to enjoy the Christmas parades, meet Santa, and participate in other seasonal activities. Christmas music plays throughout the park throughout the day, adding to the festive mood. The joyful atmosphere not only attracts local visitors but also draws families from countries celebrating Christmas around the world. Colorful decorations and lights create a magical backdrop as children share their holiday wishes with Santa. The park is transformed into a winter wonderland, offering a taste of global Christmas traditions for everyone to enjoy.

Send Money to Japan for the Holidays

From illuminations to Daiku performances, there are plenty of ways to celebrate Christmas in Japan. Japanese Christmas traditions don’t revolve around gift-giving, so you don’t have to put presents under a Christmas tree. But, it’s common for couples to exchange gifts with each other and for families to exchange gifts on New Year’s.

If you’re on your way to Japan for the winter holidays, be sure to exchange your money into yen so you can get the best deals on your purchases by using the local currency.

And if you can’t be there to spend time with your family and loved ones, consider sending money abroad for a Christmas cake or Christmas dinner. The Remitly team wants to wish a very “Meri Kurisumasu“ to all those with loved ones in Japan. We hope you enjoy some of these Japanese Christmas traditions and have a happy New Year!

 

FAQS

The Christmas season in Portugal is a joyous time filled with parties, activities, and delicious meals with friends and family. If you find yourself in Portugal this Christmas, or if you’re hosting friends from Portugal and want to make them feel at home, or you are moving to Portugal and want to celebrate like a local, read our Remitly guide to Portugal Christmas traditions, including customs, foods, and popular holiday activities.

How do you say “Merry Christmas” in Portuguese?

If you want to wish someone a Merry Christmas in Portuguese, use the phrase “Feliz Natal.“ For a more inclusive greeting, you might say “Boas Festas,“ which translates to “Happy Holidays.”

After Christmas Day, holiday greetings in Portugal usually shift to focus on the upcoming year. You may hear people say “Feliz Ano Novo,“ which means “Have a happy New Year,” or “Melhores votos para o Ano Novo,“ which means “Best wishes for the New Year.”

What is the weather like in Portugal at Christmas?

Portugal isn’t known for white Christmases since the location of the country along the Atlantic Ocean gives Portugal a much milder climate than the U.S., Canada, and much of Europe.

In Lisbon, December temperatures typically range from 48.9°F (9.4°C) to 59.5°F (15.3°C). The month brings an average of 14 days of rainfall, amounting to a total of a little less than 5 inches. Water temperatures are usually around 61.9°F (16.6°C), which most people find too cold for swimming.

What is Christmas Eve like in Portugal?

Generally, Christmas Eve, December 24th, is when Portuguese families hold their biggest celebrations. Extended families typically gather under one roof for the night. In the late evening, they eat a large Christmas Eve dinner, and those who are religious may get ready to attend church for Mass. As families come together to share in the festivities, they often reflect on their cultural traditions and values. Similar to Christmas food traditions in Kenya, where meals play a significant role in uniting families, Portuguese dinners are filled with symbolic dishes such as bacalhau and special desserts. This communal atmosphere fosters a sense of belonging and gratitude as they celebrate the joyous occasion together.

Prior to leaving for Mass, families with children make secret last-minute preparations for the night, including laying the figurine of the infant Jesus in the family’s Nativity scene, placing presents for kids under the tree, and filling their shoes with small gifts.

The Portuguese call their Christmas midnight Mass service Missa do Galo, or “Mass of the Rooster,” because it marks the official start of Christmas Day—much like the rooster’s crow signals the arrival of dawn.

Missa do Galo is much like Catholic Mass services in other countries, but Portuguese churches do have one unique tradition. At one point, the priest presents an image of the baby Jesus, and worshippers come to the front of the church to kiss it.

When the family returns home from Midnight Mass, children believe that Pai Natal, or Father Christmas, has visited. Pai Natal closely resembles Santa Claus in North America, including his red, fur-trimmed suit and full white beard. After children discover their Christmas gifts, everyone celebrates the holiday into the early morning hours.

What is Christmas Day like in Portugal?

On Christmas Day, December 25th, families often wake up late and open Christmas presents together. Children may open one or two gifts the night before, but adults usually wait. After unwrapping everything, the family eats lunch together—usually leftovers from the night before.

Typically, December 25 is quieter and more relaxed than Christmas Eve for most families. Loved ones spend the day together watching Christmas movies and socializing. Many people return to their regular work schedule on December 26.

What are some common Portuguese Christmas traditions?

The Portuguese have a number of unique Christmas traditions as well as more common customs that are similar to those in other countries. Let’s explore some common Christmas traditions in Portugal.

Presépios displays

Many families display Presépios, or Nativity scenes, every year and make setting up the figurines part of their holiday traditions. Larger versions also appear outside of homes and in public places.

Adding the baby Jesus figurine in the late evening on Christmas Eve or Day is customary. Some families also add wise men figures on January 6 in honor of Three Kings Day.

Christmas trees

Although Nativity scenes are more common than Christmas trees, many families put up an artificial tree and decorate it much like North Americans do with lights, ornaments, and tinsel.

Christmas Madeiro

In Penamacor, young men cut down the largest tree they can find and use it to create a bonfire in the local churchyard. The community turns out to mingle near the warmth of the fire.

January songs

After Christmas, groups of people will go door-to-door, singing festive carols and playing small instruments. Inviting them inside to enjoy a snack like roasted nuts or figs is customary.

What is a traditional Portuguese Christmas dinner like?

The traditional Christmas dinner in Portugal is called consoada. The meal typically begins with salted cod, boiled potatoes, boiled eggs, and green vegetables. Then, families usually eat a course of more luxurious dishes, like wild meats or shellfish.

Christmas foods popular in Portugal include several tempting desserts, many of which are associated with particular regions.

• Lampreia de Ovos: Egg yolks rolled in sugar and molded into the shape of fish, a popular dessert in the province of Minho
• Rabanadas: Portuguese French toast made by dipping bread in egg and cinnamon sugar, then fried and topped with wine sauce
• Bacalhau: Boiled codfish with cabbage and potatoes
• Arroz dolce: Sweet rice pudding
• Flan: Caramel custard with a layer of caramel sauce on top
• Azevias de grão e amêndoa: Fried pastries made of chickpeas and almonds
• Filhós: A fried dough sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. There are many regional variations; for example, it is customary to add orange or lemon zest in Beira Province, while in Alentejo Province, people often incorporate grated carrots for color and flavor.
• Bolo Rei or King Cake: The most popular of christmas desserts. A fluffy cake filled with dried fruits and nuts. A broad bean and a small gift are baked into the cake. The person who gets the gift is the king or queen of the meal, but the person who finds the bean must buy or make the King’s Cake for next year’s Christmas celebration.

As far as drinks go, porto wine is popular during a holiday celebration. This strong dessert wine originated in Portugal and comes in many varieties. People may also sip Ginjinha, a spirit with a sour cherry flavor, or Amarguinha, an almond liqueur.

What are the best places to spend Christmas in Portugal?

If you’re visiting Portugal at Christmas or spending Christmas in the country as an expat, the following cities are some of the best places to be for the Christmas holidays.

Águeda

Águeda in Central Portugal is well known for its festival of lights. In 2016, the city also became home to the largest Santa Claus in the world. The statue is lit with approximately 250,000 LED lights and is as tall as a seven-story building.

Each year, artists also display new works dedicated to the holiday season as a part of the festivities. Typically, the city also transforms one street into a wintry scene using an umbrella canopy composed of parasols, tinsel, and lights.

Braga

The northwestern city of Braga hosts a festival of lights, but its biggest draw is the live Nativity of Priscos, the world’s largest live Nativity scene. Typically, it includes more than 90 individual scenes that tell the story of the events surrounding the birth of Jesus.

On Christmas Eve, the Casa das Bananas on Rua do Souto in Braga hosts the Bananeiro. In this public event, the community gathers to eat bananas and drink muscatel wine.

Cabeça

Called the Christmas Capital of Portugal, Cabeça in the Serra da Estrela mountains takes Christmas celebrations to the next level. The village is home to just 170 people but manages to create a Christmas village that rivals any found in large Portuguese cities and other cities around the world.

To spread the Christmas cheer, the entire village receives a makeover, transforming the place into a winter wonderland. A Christmas market extends throughout Cabeça, and white Christmas lights twinkle on every building. Kids can enjoy arts and crafts at the Christmas workshop, and local bakeries and restaurants serve up delicious food and drinks.

Guimarães

If you’ll be spending all of the festive season in Portugal, visit Guimarães in the Norte region on November 29. Each year on this date, representatives of the city venture out at dawn to cut down a giant Christmas tree.

Then, thousands of people gather to bring the tree through the town in a grand procession and erect it in the central square. For the rest of the day, the crowd decorates the Christmas tree with Christmas lights and ornaments while Portuguese Christmas music plays.

The annual event honors Saint Nicholas and marks the official start of the festive period in the city.

Lisbon

Portugal’s capital city receives a festive makeover for Christmas each year with light displays in public areas like the Praça do Comércio. The city is also home to numerous Christmas markets. The most well-known is the Campo Pequeno Christmas Market, situated in a former bullfighting arena.

After browsing the nearly 100 stalls, you can grab a bite to eat at the food court and lace your skates for the outdoor ice skating rink. Plus, the Ferris wheel and Santa village make the Wonderland Lisboa market a popular choice for families with kids.

Óbidos

Located in the Estremadura region of western Portugal, Óbidos is home to the Óbidos Vila Natal, one of Portugal’s most famous Christmas markets. A medieval village gives the festivities a fairytale-like feel and makes the Santa Claus village feel very realistic for kids.

In addition to shopping, the festival usually includes numerous live performances, such as puppet shows, circuses, concerts, and magicians.

What are some other Portuguese winter holidays?

In addition to Christmas celebrations, December and January bring a number of other holidays to Portugal, including:

• Restauração da Independência (December 1): Also known as Independence Day, this holiday commemorates when Portugal regained independence after being ruled by Spain from 1580 to 1640.
• Imaculada Conceição (December 8): A public holiday in Portugal, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception remembers when an angel appeared to the Virgin Mary and announced the impending birth of baby Jesus.
• Primeira Oitava (December 26): Boxing Day isn’t a public holiday in most of Portugal, but Madeira is the exception. The tradition dates back centuries, and many families living in the city continue to celebrate Christmas through the 26th as a result.
• New Year’s Eve (December 31): Eating 12 raisins at the stroke of midnight is a common Portuguese tradition, as is raising a glass of champagne to the New Year.
• New Year’s Day (January 1): The first of the year is a public holiday in Portugal and gives people a chance to recover from the previous night’s celebrations and to spend time with friends and family.
• Dia de Reis (January 6): Also called Epiphany or Three Kings Day, this holiday remembers when the wise men came to visit little Jesus in the manger. Some families enjoy king cake on Christmas Eve, but others wait until Dia de Reis.
• Dia do Concelho (Varies): Various municipalities in Portugal have Municipal holidays that correspond to their traditional festivals. Celebrations vary from city to city, but people typically get the day off of work in honor of the observance. Here’s a rundown of the municipal holidays that occur during the winter months:
  • Santa Cruz: January 15
  • Santa Maria de Feira: January 20
  • São Vicente: January 22
  • Valença: February 18

FAQs

From everyone here at Remitly—Merry Christmas to our customers in Nigeria and all around the world!

In Nigeria, Christmas is a time to put on fine new clothes and travel to spend time with family. Most Nigerian families start their joyous celebrations on Christmas Eve, and they last well into Christmas morning, when Christians attend church and then return home to celebrate more.

Remitly employee Amy L. recalls playing games like Ludo and AYO/NCHO during Christmas Eve growing up in Naija. “Christmas was more about us gathering as a family. Gift exchange wasn’t a huge part of our Christmas,” she says. “As kids, we looked forward to wearing new outfits and shoes for Christmas service.”

Along with Christmas clothes, enjoying a feast with friends and family is an important part of Christmas traditions in Nigeria as well. Amy remembers listening to the Nigerian Christmas song Mary’s Baby Boy Child by Boney M. as her family gathered and cooked up the Christmas feast.

One dish in particular stands out as a true Nigerian Christmas classic: Jollof rice. Here, we look closer at this delicious dish and examine a few special Jollof recipes by Nigerian cooks that you can try during your Christmas celebrations—no matter where you are during the festive season.

Christmas in Nigeria

In Nigeria, Christmas is a vibrant celebration marked by carols, Christmas trees, and joyful parades. People decorate their homes with Christmas lights, send out Christmas cards, and exchange gifts, blending traditional customs with holiday spirit. Families gather for festive meals, often featuring local delicacies alongside traditional Christmas dishes. Similar to Christmas traditions in India, the Nigerian festivities showcase a mix of cultural influences and religious significance, creating a unique and joyous holiday experience. Community events, such as church services and street fairs, further enhance the celebratory atmosphere, bringing people together in unity and joy.

Throughout the season, Yoruba and other ethnic groups in Nigeria join with loved ones in community gatherings and festivities. Firecrackers, and bangers light up the night, and elaborate Christmas decorations bring neighborhoods to life, honoring God and uniting people in celebration.

A central part of the Nigerian Christmas feast is jollof rice, a beloved dish shared among family and friends. Many attend church services to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, while Santa Claus, known locally as “Father Christmas,” visits children at events with gifts, adding to the excitement.

What is Jollof?

Jollof is a one-pot dish with many variations, enjoyed in Nigeria and other countries like Senegal, Guinea, Gambia, Sierra Leona, Liberia, and Ghana. Most feature long-grain white rice cooked with tomatoes, vegetables, meat, onions, and spices.

Preparing Jollof the traditional way involves cooking over an open flame, but many recipes allow you to cook it on a stovetop too. How you serve Jollof also matters. After you’ve spooned out the top, don’t discard the “socarrat” or “bottom pot,” the seemingly burned rice at the bottom of the pot—it’s often the most flavorful part of the batch.

Is Jollof rice Nigerian or Ghanaian?

Jollof is a rice dish that originated in Western Africa. Its exact birthplace is a controversial topic, though.

Historians have traced the dish back to the Wolof, or Jolof, Empire, which ruled the Senegambia region of West Africa from the 14th to the 16th century. The dish grew popular across the region and is believed to have influenced the Cajun dishes of jambalaya and gumbo as well.

Since a number of modern-day African countries were a part of this region, there’s a lot of debate about which country is the true birthplace of the dish. In 2014, the #JollofWars broke out on Twitter between Ghanaians and Nigerians as Africans argued over the true inventors of Jollof.

While we may never be able to say for certain whether Jollof is Nigerian or Ghanaian, it’s clear that this dish is integral to the culture of both countries—and to people of Nigerian and Ghanaian ethnicity living in other parts of the world.

In the US, there’s a Jollof Festival where chefs participate in culinary battles to see who can create the tastiest version. Attendees get to try it all and then vote on the winner. FreemeTV also put out an EP of holiday music called “A Jollof Christmas,” you can find it on Spotify to play while you prepare Jollof for your own Christmas meal.

What does Jollof taste like?

Jollof typically has a smoky taste with slightly acidic, sweet notes due to the tomatoes. Many people add chili powder, habanero peppers, or scotch bonnet peppers to bring some heat to the dish. Of course, you can also put bell peppers into the mix to keep things mild.

What is the secret ingredient in Jollof rice?

The secret ingredient that gives the Nigerian fried rice its bright red color is the tomatoes. Recipes that call for tomato paste tend to be the brightest.

You can purchase a high-quality, store-bought paste or make your own to get the color of Jollof just right.

What are the best spices for Jollof rice?

The best spices for Nigerian fried rice rice are the ones that please your palate. Some commonly used in Jollof include:

• Allspice
• Bay leaf
• Cayenne or black pepper
• Chili powder
• Coriander
• Cumin
• Curry powder
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Nutmeg
• Onion or onion powder
• Thyme
• Turmeric

What do you serve with Jollof?

While fried rice can easily be a main course, it’s often served as a tasty side dish in Nigeria. If you want to add some more Nigerian flavor to your Christmas Day meal, add some of these other dishes to your table:

• Dodo: Nigerian plantains that can be fried, grilled, or boiled
• Nigerian salad: A vegetable salad similar to coleslaw that contains cabbage, carrots, and mayonnaise or salad cream
• Pounded yam: A popular dish that consists of Puna yam boiled, pounded, and rolled into balls, often eaten with a stew or soup
• Protein: Chicken, ram, beef, and goat are all popular choices of protein eaten during the Christmas season
• Peppered snail: One of the most popular Nigerian snacks to eat with rice dishes, an appetizer of snails served on a skewer and topped with a spicy pepper sauce

Jollof rice recipes for a Nigerian Christmas dinner

There is no single way to make Nigerian fried rice. From home cooks to executive chefs, everyone who whips up a batch of the traditional Jollof takes their own approach when it comes to ingredients, spices, and methods. A perfect plate of Jollof is one that your family members love to eat—a meal special enough for the holiday season.

To set you off on your own Jollof journey and warm up your December, we’re serving up four unique Christmas time recipes—try one as written, or draw inspiration from each one to create your own recipe.

Awaken your palate with Chef Tunde Wey’s spicy Jollof

For Chef Tunde Wey, mastering Jollof is all about seeking a balance between smoky and spicy and getting every grain of rice to just the right consistency. “It is a fun dish to make, but it requires some practice to get it exactly right,” he explains on his blog. “The perfect plate of Jollof rice must be slightly smoky, deeply flavored, al dente, and bright red. It’s a challenge but definitely worth it!”

Get Tunde Wey’s Jollof Rice recipe on AramcoWorld

Wey was born in Nigeria and then moved to the US when he turned 16. As a chef, he’s especially interested in the connections between food and culture. He’s gained fame for his traveling dinner series, which allows diners to literally get a taste of history and cultural experiences.

Called “From Lagos,” his first tour highlighted traditional Nigerian cuisine while exploring the political and socioeconomic challenges facing his birthplace. His second tour, “Blackness in America,” is meant to spark conversations about what it is like to be Black in the U.S. and how the Black experience is reflected in food.

With his recipe for Jollof, Wey brings plenty of traditional flavor from spices like turmeric, ground coriander, cumin, allspice, African dried chili, ginger, thyme, and bay leaves. Although his technique is complex, he provides some troubleshooting tips for cooks who end up with rice that is too wet or too dry, making the recipe accessible to beginners.

 

Enjoy Jollof in less than an hour with Chef Immaculate Ruému’s quick Jollof

Chef Immaculate Ruému proves a traditional Jollof doesn’t have to mean hours spent in the kitchen. Her recipe is a great choice for those pressed for time during the holiday season. This recipe is one of many that Ruému has developed during her career. She constantly comes up with new twists and even has an extra-quick version of the dish made with jarred pasta sauce.

While explaining her love of experimentation, she says, “As a Nigerian, I can say that aside from the taste and flavor, a beautiful thing about the Nigerian Jollof rice dish is how it varies.”

Get Chef Immaculate Ruému’s Classic Nigerian Jollof Rice on her blog

Experimental recipes are a cornerstone of Ruému’s work, and it seems her life story inspires her. She was born in Nigeria and then completed her Michelin training in London. Today, she works in Milan as a private chef, creating fusion meals incorporating elements of Nigerian, Italian, and other cuisines.

From start to finish, Ruému’s Jollof takes only 45 minutes to complete. A food processor handles the ingredient prep and blending in one simple step, and her instructions make cooking the rice to the right consistency virtually foolproof.

Turn any meal into a celebration with Eleanor Ajoku Henry’s festive Jollof

Blogger Eleanor Ajoku Henry doesn’t wait until the holidays to prepare her Jollof. For her, the traditional dish is a way to bring a joyful, celebratory mood into a meal. Over the years, she has perfected her method of packing the smokey flavor she’s accustomed to into the dish.

She says, “Most people feel the unique taste comes from preparation using firewood, but that isn’t always necessarily the case. For me, it’s impossible to make rice with firewood, since my apartment complex doesn’t necessarily allow one to grill, let alone smoke anything. But [my] recipe comes close to the wonderful taste of party Jollof without any firewood.”

Get Eleanor Ajoku Henry’s Jollof Rice Recipe on her blog

Ajoku was born in Igbo, Nigeria, and moved to the US when she was a teenager. She holds a degree in chemical engineering from the University of Toledo. While she was in college, she began recording podcasts and blogging as a way of self-discovery. Her honest, insightful posts and episodes struck a chord with many people her age, turning her reflective project into a career. On her blog, she covers everything from food to professional development to wellness.

For her recipe, Ajoku includes traditional spices plus Knorr or Maggi bouillon cubes for extra flavor. She warns that her dish brings the heat and advises readers to adjust the ingredients as needed. Her take on Jollof also includes optional crayfish for those who want to make their meal even heartier.

 

Make it a meatless holiday with Afia Amoako’s vegan Jollof

Traditionally, Jollof isn’t vegan, but Afia Amoako has changed that with her version of the traditional dish. She created her recipe to continue to enjoy one of her favorite foods without sacrificing her commitment to an animal-free diet.

Her love for the dish is apparent, as she says, “Jollof Rice has a special place in my heart! If someone asked me what meals I will live on for the rest of my life, I will say Oatmeal and Jollof Rice. I think it is the perfect way to prepare rice; it is absolutely fragrant, rich in color with different texture.”

Get Afia Amoako’s Vegan Jollof Rice Recipe on her blog, The Canadian African

Afia Amoako was born in Ghana but has since moved to Canada, where she is a full-time doctoral student in epidemiology. She began food blogging after going vegan. When she first made the change, she found that one of the most difficult parts of giving up meat, seafood, dairy, and eggs was going without the foods that reminded her of home. This led her to come up with vegan versions of traditional West African dishes and to share the delicious results.

Amoako’s recipe uses veggie bouillon. She also includes a few unique spices like rosemary and the Indian spice garam masala. In addition to the recipe, she provides tips on how to modify the dish and choose the right pot to prepare the meal.

FAQs

Colombia’s vibrant culture is considered one of the most traditional in Latin America.

At Remitly, we know that Colombians who have immigrated to other countries, such as the United States, Europe, or other places in South America, often miss these traditions, especially at Christmas. That’s why we created this list of traditions that will be familiar to everyone from Colombia, regardless of where they find themselves today. We hope it will help those who can’t be in Colombia for Christmas feel more at home.

Not just for expats, this guide also introduces those who have never experienced Christmas in Colombia to holiday season traditions. This way, you know what to expect if you’re visiting Colombia during the holidays or simply want to learn about the different ways of celebrating Christmas around the world.

Read on to learn more about the typical Colombian Christmas.

How popular is Christmas in Colombia?

Christmas is a significant time for Colombians, who relish the holiday season.

Roughly 92% of the population of the South American nation identifies as Christian, making the Christmas season one of the most important holidays of the year. As a result, you’ll find Christmas trees, lights, fireworks, and festivities at Christmas, from Bogota to the Caribbean coast and all the way into mountain villages.

Even those who aren’t Christian often celebrate the holiday season in a secular way. They may hang Christmas lights or even give gifts to loved ones in honor of Christmas.

Colombians like Christmas so much that it’s very common to see lights, Christmas trees, and nativity scenes as early as October. When December arrives, the entire country is illuminated as the Christmas season reaches its pinnacle.

11 Colombian Christmas Traditions

From lighting candles to erecting nativity scenes, this is how Colombians celebrate the season.

The Alboradas

To kick off December and build excitement for the upcoming holidays, the city of Medellin hosts a special event — the Alboradas.

On December 1, the city blows up a full ton of fireworks, and locals set off firecrackers. This tradition has spread to other parts of the country, with some other towns and villages hosting fireworks displays to get everyone ready to celebrate Christmas.

Little Candles’ Day

Noche de las Velitas, (or Día de las Velitas,) Day of the Little Candles, marks the beginning of Christmas in Colombia.

The celebration falls on December 7th (the eve of the Immaculate Conception). Residents line the streets with thousands of tiny candles in homemade lanterns to light a path for Mary, the mother of Jesus, as she visits people’s homes.

The display of candles and coverings for the Day of the Little Candles varies depending on the region of Colombia.

In the country’s capital, Bogota, people light candles and place them on windowsills and balconies. They also use them as decorations for parks and roads. Several streets in Bogota are closed so locals can enjoy the city’s Día de las Velitas decorations.

On December 8th, families on the Caribbean coast typically light candles early, and residents in Cali stroll along the Cali River, which is always lit up for the occasion.

Aguinaldos

Juegos de aguinaldos are games played during the nights of the Novenas, which occur on the nine nights leading up to Christmas. They’re fun little challenges that often result in a small prize.

The games include: “three feet or tres pies,” in which players try to place one foot between their opponents’ feet without them noticing. “Straw in the mouth” demands that you hold a straw in your mouth all day, and “stolen kiss” is just what it sounds like.

Colombian families look forward to these annual games, and in some cases, extended family will come early to visit so that they can be present for all nine nights.

Waiting for Baby Jesus

Santa Claus is well-known in many parts of Colombia. Throughout the month of December, you’ll see images of the jolly bearded figure wearing the red suit.

However, Colombians typically don’t keep with the Christmas tradition of leaving treats out for Santa Claus on Christmas Eve. That’s because, in Colombia, it isn’t Santa Claus who brings gifts to children. Instead, Colombians say that it’s the Niño Jesus or Baby Jesus who delivers presents.

Praying the Novena

Colombian Christmas traditions are closely linked to Catholic customs. Most Colombians are Catholics, and praying the novenas is a common practice that takes place on the days leading up to Christmas from December 16th to 24th.  In addition to novenas, many families gather for festive meals that include traditional dishes and treats, enhancing the communal spirit of the season. While Colombian Christmas traditions are rich and varied, it’s interesting to compare them with Christmas traditions in the Dominican Republic, where vibrant celebrations and lively music also play a central role. Both countries share a deep appreciation for family and faith, making their holiday festivities unique yet similar in essence.

Collectively called the Novena de Aguinaldos, the prayers are performed in remembrance of the Virgin Mary, St. Joseph, the Wise Men, and Baby Jesus, who sought refuge in a new location each night. Similarly, the novena is prayed and celebrated in a different house each night.

The Christmas prayers are repeated privately or collectively during the novenas and are read aloud from a book circulated among the attendees. Often, neighbors take turns hosting the evening prayers, and people enjoy Christmas food and conversation after praying.

Christmas lights everywhere

Christmas lights are a major event in Colombia. Each city takes pride in its different decorations, but Medellin is known for having the best displays, including an extravaganza that spans over 100 city parks and centers on the Medellin River.

The decorations are organized according to a theme, such as “Values Illuminate Christmas,” which tells the story of a girl named Paloma who traveled the River of Peace. Every year, people go out for a walk or take different bus routes that tour the city to admire the Christmas decorations.

With an annual attendance of over four million visitors and a budget of $10 million USD, the Medellin Christmas lights are the city’s most popular tourist attraction — considered by National Geographic magazine as one of the 10 most amazing in the world. If you have the opportunity to visit South America or travel to Colombia during the holidays, it’s worthwhile.

Colombian Christmas dinner

Christmas in Colombia culminates with a family meal on Christmas Eve, which Colombians call “Noche Buena“ or “the good night.“

Natilla is a very popular Christmas dessert and is arguably the country’s most cherished Christmas treat. It is a creamy custard dish made with milk that is eaten alongside other holiday favorites like manjar blanco (a caramel-like spread) and buñuelos (fried dough balls, served hot).

Want to try making them at home? This recipe is a good starting place.

 

Other popular Christmas foods and drinks served for Noche Buena include:

• Lecona, roast pork filled with peas
• Arepas, cornmeal cake stuffed with meat or vegetables and deep-fried
• Ajiaco bogotano, a soup made with chicken, potato, and corn
• Canelazo, an anise-flavored liqueur stirred into hot water and spiced with cinnamon and cloves
• Sabajon, rum, or anise liqueur mixed with cinnamon, milk, egg yolk, sugar, and vanilla

Seafood and fish are also common Christmas food options in many regions. Colombia is the only South American nation with coasts on two oceans, and the sea’s bounty has become an integral part of the cuisine.

Attending mass

Just as it is in many countries in South America and Europe that have Catholic roots, mass is an important part of Colombian Christmas traditions. Many families head to midnight mass after the Christmas meal on Christmas Eve.

During the church service, worshipers sing Christmas carols, listen to scripture, and take communion. When mass ends, it’s officially Christmas Day.

Nativity scenes

Nativity scenes, or “los pesebres (stables),” are another significant part of a Colombian Christmas.

Just as with Christmas lights, Colombians take the nativity scene to the next level. They’re more than just a feature in individual homes.

Many towns and cities construct elaborate nativity scenes that take up entire streets. In some places, the whole cityscape becomes Bethlehem during the season, and the decorations typically stay up throughout the Christmas period.

Day of the Innocents

The fun of a Colombian Christmas doesn’t stop on December 25. Three days later, on December 28, Colombians celebrate the Day of the Innocents.

This holiday is similar to April Fools’ Day, with people playing practical jokes and pranks on each other. As a part of the overall Christmas traditions, Colombians view the holiday as a time to raise their spirits so that they can joyously enter the new year.

Three Kings Day

The celebration of Three Kings Day is the last part of the traditional Colombian Christmas season. Observed January 6, it is a day for remembering the journey the wise men took to see the Niño Jesus.

In some parts of Colombia, children leave their shoes by the door in hopes that the three kings will fill them with treats. Many cities throughout the country host parades for the holiday, and families often gather to enjoy one last Christmas meal as well as the glow of the Christmas tree and other decorations.

Merry Christmas from all of us at Remitly. We hope you have enjoyed reminiscing or discovering Colombia’s Christmas traditions and that this article inspires you to add a new Christmas tradition or two to your holiday celebrations, wherever you are this December.

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