10 Christmas traditions from around the world

<img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2020/11/Crop-5x-Reasons-to-Buy-Images-02-a41c1c9.gif?quality=90&resize=620,413" srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2020/11/Crop-5x-Reasons-to-Buy-Images-02-a41c1c9.gif?quality=90&resize=960,639 960w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2020/11/Crop-5x-Reasons-to-Buy-Images-02-a41c1c9.gif?quality=90&resize=720,479 720w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2020/11/Crop-5x-Reasons-to-Buy-Images-02-a41c1c9.gif?quality=90&resize=576,383 576w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2020/11/Crop-5x-Reasons-to-Buy-Images-02-a41c1c9.gif?quality=90&resize=360,239 360w, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2020/11/Crop-5x-Reasons-to-Buy-Images-02-a41c1c9.gif?quality=90&resize=180,119 180w, " sizes="(max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" width="620" height="413" class="wp-image-845731 alignnone size-landscape_thumbnail" alt="A Christmas turkey with stuffing on a serving platter" title="10 Christmas traditions from around the world" /> <p>In the UK, Christmas dinner is typically eaten on Christmas Day, but in many European countries Christmas Eve is seen as the most significant day; in other countries across the globe, the main festivities stretch right into January. From roast turkey and glistening glazed ham to spicy chicken stew, find out what will be on the table this Christmas all over the world.</p>
<p>Leaving out a thank-you drink and snack for Father Christmas and Rudolph is a popular tradition among English-speaking and European countries, but what Santa and his reindeer can look forward to varies considerably – from milk, cookies, mince pies and carrots to even a refreshing cold beer.</p>
<p>Get inspired with all of our <a href="/recipes/collection/christmas-recipes">Christmas recipes</a>, <a href="/recipes/collection/vegetarian-christmas-recipes">Vegetarian Christmas recipes</a> and <a href="/recipes/collection/vegan-christmas-recipes">Vegan Christmas recipes</a>, then learn more about <a href="/howto/guide/10-things-to-do-on-christmas-eve">things to do on Christmas Eve</a> and <a href="/howto/guide/10-fun-family-christmas-traditions">fun family Christmas traditions</a>.</p>
<h2>10 Christmas traditions from around the world</h2>
<h3>1. United Kingdom</h3>
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<h3>British Christmas dinner</h3>
<p>The classic British Christmas dinner is an elaborate and traditional meal with plates typically piled high with roast <a href="/recipes/collection/turkey-recipes">turkey</a>, <a href="/recipes/collection/pigs-blankets-recipes">pigs in blankets</a>, roast potatoes, <a href="/recipes/collection/christmas-stuffing-recipes">stuffing</a>, <a href="/recipes/collection/brussel-sprouts-recipes">brussels sprouts</a> and an assortment of other veggies including parsnips, <a href="/recipes/collection/christmas-red-cabbage-recipes">red cabbage</a>, cauliflower cheese and carrots. Everything is generously doused with the obligatory <a href="/recipes/collection/christmas-gravy-recipes">Christmas gravy</a>, plus <a href="/recipes/collection/cranberry-sauce-recipes">cranberry sauce</a> and <a href="/recipes/collection/bread-sauce-recipes">bread sauce</a> depending on personal preference. It’s not a British Christmas dinner without a <a href="/recipes/collection/christmas-pudding-recipes">Christmas pudding</a> to round off proceedings.</p>
<p>Discover our <a href="/howto/guide/complete-christmas-menu-classic">traditional Christmas dinner menu</a> and <a href="/howto/guide/tom-kerridges-tips-throwing-perfect-christmas-dinner">Tom Kerridge’s tips for a traditional Christmas</a>. If you want to break with the norm, try our <a href="/howto/guide/alternative-christmas-dinner-recipes">alternative Christmas dinners</a> and <a href="/howto/guide/alternative-christmas-desserts">alternative Christmas desserts</a>.</p>
<h3>British Christmas food traditions</h3>
<p>To reward Father Christmas and Rudolph’s feat of delivering presents to all the children in the world in one night, sherry (or milk for a tee-total Santa), mince pies and a carrot for Rudolph are left out by the fireplace. This tradition is believed to originate in the Netherlands, where Dutch children typically left food and drink for Father Christmas in exchange for presents.</p>
<p>Find out the best <a href="/howto/guide/what-leave-santa">festive snacks to leave for Santa this Christmas Eve</a> to keep you and your family on his good list, as well as our best <a href="/recipes/collection/mince-pies-recipes">mince pie recipes</a>. Discover our <a href="/recipes/10-twists-on-mince-pies">twists on mince pies</a> for some alternative mince pie ideas.</p>
<h3>2. United States</h3>
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<img class="wp-image-911453 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image–aspect no-wrap js-lazyload" srcset="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" data-src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/Man-carving-thanksgiving-731df69.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C413" width="620" height="413" alt="Man carving turkey" title="Man carving turkey">
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<h3>American Christmas dinner</h3>
<p>Christmas dinner in the States is also a time for a hearty family meal. <a href="/howto/guide/what-is-thanksgiving">Thanksgiving</a>, celebrated a month or so before Christmas, is traditionally when Americans will enjoy a <a href="/recipes/thanksgiving-turkey-recipes">roast turkey</a> with all of the trimmings. For Christmas they may celebrate with a glazed ham, but they may also enjoy a similar roast to Thanksgiving or <a href="/recipes/collection/ribs-recipes">ribs</a>, <a href="/recipes/collection/mexican-recipes">Mexican-inspired dishes</a> and <a href="/recipes/collection/seafood-recipes">seafood</a>.</p>
<p>For dessert, there might be a classic <a href="/recipes/collection/pumpkin-pie-recipes">pumpkin pie</a> or <a href="/recipes/collection/pecan-pies-recipes">pecan pie</a> to look forward to. For Jewish families, the tradition is to eat <a href="/recipes/collection/chinese-recipes">Chinese</a> food on the big day.</p>
<h3>American Christmas food traditions</h3>
<p>Kids will typically leave out the classic all-American pairing of milk and <a href="/recipes/collection/cookie-recipes">cookies</a> for a hungry Santa and his reindeer. For more inspiration, try our <a href="/howto/guide/ultimate-thanksgiving-dinner">Thanksgiving recipes</a> as well as more <a href="/recipes/collection/american-recipes">American recipes</a>.</p>
<h3>3. Australia and New Zealand</h3>
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<source media="(min-width: 590px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-905948414-014d057.jpg?quality=90&resize=555%2C370, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-905948414-014d057.jpg?quality=45&resize=1109%2C740 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-905948414-014d057.jpg?quality=45&resize=1666%2C1111 3x" type="image/jpeg">
<img class="wp-image-913773 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image–aspect no-wrap js-lazyload" srcset="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" data-src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-905948414-014d057.jpg?quality=90&resize=619%2C413" width="620" height="413" alt="Cropped shot of a happy family having dessert together on Christmas" title="Christmas down under">
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<h3>Christmas dinner down under</h3>
<p>With Australia and New Zealand celebrating Christmas during the height of summer, their Christmas meal is a reflection of the warmer weather. A <a href="/howto/guide/top-5-family-barbecue-recipes">family barbecue</a> on the beach is a popular option, and as such Christmas dinner is largely a more informal occasion. <a href="/recipes/collection/roast-lamb-recipes">Roast lamb</a> is a popular meat in New Zealand, and Aussies may enjoy tucking into a make-ahead <a href="/recipes/collection/glazed-ham-recipes">glazed ham</a> outdoors in the sunshine. A classic <a href="/recipes/christmas-pavlova">Christmas pavlova</a> is likely to be on the menu for dessert.</p>
<p>Māori families may cook a hāngī – a meal that is slow-cooked using heated stones in a pit oven – for their Christmas dinner. This can typically include meats such as pork and lamb as well as veggies such as kūmara (sweet potato), pumpkin and cabbage.</p>
<h3>Antipodean Christmas food traditions</h3>
<p>Aussies and Kiwis share many Christmas food traditions with us Brits due to our cultural similarities, so it’s not uncommon for families to leave out a carrot and water for Rudolph – although they might also include a refreshing beer for Santa to keep cool in the heat. Kids often make up a batch of <a href="/recipes/cinnamon-apricot-trail-mix">trail mix</a>, sometimes with a sprinkle of edible glitter, to help Father Christmas and Rudolph get their energy up for the long journey ahead.</p>
<p>It’s also becoming increasingly common to celebrate ‘mid-winter Christmas’ during June or July when the weather is at its coldest. People may dress up in Christmas jumpers and enjoy a <a href="/recipes/collection/easy-roast-dinner-recipes">roast dinner</a> of chicken or lamb with friends or colleagues. Discover our <a href="/recipes/collection/australia-day-recipes">Australian recipes</a>.</p>
<h3>4. Italy</h3>
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<source media="(max-width: 320px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/Christmas-panettone-3aca7b3.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=299%2C199, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/Christmas-panettone-3aca7b3.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&resize=599%2C399 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/Christmas-panettone-3aca7b3.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&resize=899%2C599 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/Christmas-panettone-3aca7b3.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&resize=1199%2C799 4x" type="image/webp">
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</source></source></source></source></source></source></source></source></source></source></source></source></source></source></picture>
</div>
<h3>Italian Christmas dinner</h3>
<p>Seafood plays a prominent role on the Christmas dinner table in Italy. On Christmas Eve, the ‘Feast of the Seven Fishes’ involves eating seven different types of seafood – perhaps a <a href="/recipes/20minute-seafood-pasta">seafood linguine</a>, <a href="/recipes/roasted-fish-italian-style">roasted fish</a> or <a href="/recipes/sea-bass-seafood-italian-one-pot">sea bass one-pot</a>. In America, families with Italian heritage may also take part in this popular tradition. On Christmas Day there are several courses, often starting with an <a href="/recipes/antipasti-platter-homemade-flatbreads">antipasti platter</a> then continuing with dishes which vary from region to region – <a href="/recipes/lasagne">lasagne</a> in northern Italy or <a href="/recipes/collection/tortellini-recipes">tortellini</a> in Rome, for example.</p>
<p>For dessert, a chocolate or raisin-studded <a href="/recipes/collection/panettone-recipes">panettone</a> may complete the meal, while <a href="/recipes/pandoro">pandoro</a>, <a href="/recipes/panforte">panforte</a> and <a href="/recipes/pistachio-nougat">nougat</a> are all commonplace additions too. Find out our <a href="/howto/guide/top-10-italian-dessert-recipes">top Italian desserts</a>.</p>
<h3>Italian Christmas food traditions</h3>
<p>Italian families leave out a glass of wine and tangerines for Father Christmas and Rudolph to enjoy. Discover all of our <a href="/recipes/collection/italian-recipes">Italian recipes</a>.</p>
<h3>5. Sweden</h3>
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<source media="(min-width: 590px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1287008131-8c71aee.jpg?quality=90&crop=11px%2C91px%2C1977px%2C1317px&resize=555%2C370, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1287008131-8c71aee.jpg?quality=45&crop=11px%2C91px%2C1977px%2C1317px&resize=1111%2C740 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1287008131-8c71aee.jpg?quality=45&crop=11px%2C91px%2C1977px%2C1317px&resize=1668%2C1111 3x" type="image/jpeg">
<img data-crop-width="1977" data-crop-height="1317" class="wp-image-913992 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image–aspect no-wrap js-lazyload" srcset="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" data-src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1287008131-8c71aee.jpg?quality=90&crop=11px%2C91px%2C1977px%2C1317px&resize=620%2C413" width="620" height="413" alt="Typical smörgåsbord for christmas a little of everything suitable for smaller gatherings Photo taken from above overhead indoors" title="Swedish Christmas">
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</div>
<h3>Swedish Christmas dinner</h3>
<p>Swedish Christmas food is known as <em>julbord</em>, which translates to ‘Christmas table’. This includes a smorgasbord of traditional Scandi dishes, including <a href="/howto/guide/top-10-christmas-ham-recipes">Christmas ham</a>, <a href="/recipes/gravadlax">gravadlax</a>, <a href="/recipes/collection/swedish-meatball-recipes">meatballs</a>, <a href="/recipes/herring-beetroot-salad">herring salad</a>, <a href="/recipes/chicken-liver-pate">liver pâté</a>, <a href="/recipes/collection/rye-bread-recipes">rye bread</a> and red cabbage, and is typically eaten on 24 December.</p>
<h3>Swedish Christmas food traditions</h3>
<p>In Sweden, children will leave out coffee for Father Christmas – quite sensible to keep him awake throughout the night. <a href="/recipes/glogg">Swedish glögg</a>, similar to mulled wine, is typically drunk during the festive period.</p>
<p>Find out the <a href="/travel/europe/top-10-foods-try-sweden">top foods to try in Sweden</a> and all of our favourite <a href="/recipes/collection/swedish-recipes">Swedish recipes</a>.</p>
<h3> 6. Japan</h3>
<div class="image-handler__container image-handler__container–aspect" style="padding-bottom: calc(100% / 1.501210653753);">
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<source media="(max-width: 320px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-458095847-84728d1.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=193%2C199, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-458095847-84728d1.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&resize=387%2C399 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-458095847-84728d1.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&resize=581%2C599 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-458095847-84728d1.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&resize=775%2C799 4x" type="image/webp">
<source media="(max-width: 320px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-458095847-84728d1.jpg?quality=90&resize=193%2C199, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-458095847-84728d1.jpg?quality=45&resize=387%2C399 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-458095847-84728d1.jpg?quality=45&resize=581%2C599 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-458095847-84728d1.jpg?quality=45&resize=775%2C799 4x" type="image/jpeg">
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<source media="(min-width: 590px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-458095847-84728d1.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=359%2C370, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-458095847-84728d1.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&resize=718%2C740 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-458095847-84728d1.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&resize=1078%2C1111 3x" type="image/webp">
<source media="(min-width: 590px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-458095847-84728d1.jpg?quality=90&resize=359%2C370, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-458095847-84728d1.jpg?quality=45&resize=718%2C740 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-458095847-84728d1.jpg?quality=45&resize=1078%2C1111 3x" type="image/jpeg">
<img class="wp-image-913993 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image–aspect no-wrap js-lazyload" srcset="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" data-src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-458095847-84728d1.jpg?quality=90&resize=401%2C413" width="620" height="413" alt="Bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken" title="KFC Christmas bucket">
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</div>
<h3>Japanese Christmas dinner</h3>
<p>A successful marketing campaign in the 70s has meant that many families now enjoy a KFC Christmas bucket on 25 December. It’s so popular, many families have to get their orders in weeks before Christmas to ensure they can take part in the famous tradition.</p>
<p>For a taste of this tradition from home, try our <a href="/recipes/collection/fried-chicken-recipes">fried chicken recipes</a>.</p>
<h3>Japanese Christmas food traditions</h3>
<p>Christmas isn’t a public holiday in Japan and as such isn’t a particularly big celebration. However, ‘strawberry shortcake’ – a layered strawberry and cream sponge cake – has become a popular option, and makes quite a contrast to the dense Christmas cakes and puddings we are used to over here.</p>
<p>Try our <a href="/recipes/collection/strawberry-cake-recipes">strawberry cake recipes</a> for a lighter dessert this Christmas.</p>
<h3>7. Ethiopia</h3>
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<source media="(min-width: 590px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1156763373-0fcff2d.jpg?quality=90&resize=554%2C370, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1156763373-0fcff2d.jpg?quality=45&resize=1108%2C740 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1156763373-0fcff2d.jpg?quality=45&resize=1664%2C1111 3x" type="image/jpeg">
<img class="wp-image-913994 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image–aspect no-wrap js-lazyload" srcset="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" data-src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1156763373-0fcff2d.jpg?quality=90&resize=618%2C413" width="620" height="413" alt="Man having Ethiopian food in Addis Ababa" title="Ethiopian Christmas dinner">
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<h3>Ethiopian Christmas dinner</h3>
<p>In Ethiopia, Ganna (or Genna), the equivalent of Christmas, is celebrated on 7 January, although celebrations last for weeks. Doro wat is a spicy chicken stew enjoyed on the day, served with injera, a fermented, pancake-like flatbread for scooping up the stew. A ceremonial coffee is served after the meal, with coffee being roasted and passed around to spread the aroma.</p>
<p>Try our <a href="/recipes/spicy-african-chicken-stew">spicy peanut chicken stew</a> for a recipe inspired by this dish.</p>
<h3>Ethiopian Christmas food traditions</h3>
<p>In the run-up to Christmas Day, Orthodox Christians will fast for 43 days. This is known as the ‘Fast of the Prophets’ and involves giving up meat, dairy and alcohol. During the fast, people essentially eat a <a href="/recipes/collection/vegan-recipes">vegan diet</a> and have one meal a day.</p>
<h3>8. Mexico</h3>
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<source media="(max-width: 320px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=300%2C199, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&resize=600%2C397 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&resize=900%2C596 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&resize=1200%2C795 4x" type="image/webp">
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<source media="(max-width: 375px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?quality=90&resize=355%2C235, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?quality=45&resize=710%2C470 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?quality=45&resize=1065%2C705 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?quality=45&resize=1420%2C941 4x" type="image/jpeg">
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<source media="(max-width: 589px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=554%2C367, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&resize=1108%2C734 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&resize=1662%2C1101 3x" type="image/webp">
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<source media="(min-width: 768px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=408%2C270, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&resize=816%2C541 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&resize=1224%2C811 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&resize=1632%2C1081 4x" type="image/webp">
<source media="(min-width: 768px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?quality=90&resize=408%2C270, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?quality=45&resize=816%2C541 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?quality=45&resize=1224%2C811 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?quality=45&resize=1632%2C1081 4x" type="image/jpeg">
<source media="(min-width: 590px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&resize=556%2C368, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&resize=1112%2C737 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&resize=1668%2C1105 3x" type="image/webp">
<source media="(min-width: 590px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?quality=90&resize=556%2C368, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?quality=45&resize=1112%2C737 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?quality=45&resize=1668%2C1105 3x" type="image/jpeg">
<img class="wp-image-914002 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image–full no-wrap js-lazyload" srcset="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" data-src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1439078713-4d8bcc0.jpg?quality=90&resize=620%2C411" width="620" height="413" alt="Tamale made from pure corn with chintextle (Oaxacan paste made with chiles) mayonnaise and ranch cheese" title="Christmas in Mexico">
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</div>
<h3>Mexican Christmas dinner</h3>
<p>In Mexico, tamales are enjoyed during important celebrations including Christmas, which Mexicans celebrate on 24 December. Tamales are made using corn dough, which is then steamed in a banana leaf or corn husk. Other dishes on the Christmas table in Mexico vary from region depending on what is available, but often include bacalao (salt cod), pozole (a traditional soup) and bunuelos (a bit like mini doughnuts).</p>
<p>Try our <a href="/recipes/bacalao-a-la-vizcaina-mexican-salt-cod-stew">bacalao a la vizcaína (Mexican salt cod stew)</a>.</p>
<h3>Mexican Christmas food traditions</h3>
<p>Ponche Navideño – Christmas punch – is served in the lead-up to Christmas Eve. It’s typically alcohol-free and made by simmering fruit such as guava and apples with spices, herbs and sugar. Traditionally it’s drunk during Las Posadas, the week leading up to Christmas, which celebrates Joseph and Mary’s journey to Bethlehem.</p>
<p>Discover our <a href="/recipes/collection/mexican-cocktail-recipes">Mexican cocktail recipes</a>.</p>
<h3>9. Poland</h3>
<div class="image-handler__container image-handler__container–full" style="padding-bottom: calc(100% * (935 / 1404));">
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<source media="(max-width: 320px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1282122299-b8f7529.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&crop=5px%2C593px%2C1404px%2C935px&resize=300%2C200, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1282122299-b8f7529.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&crop=5px%2C593px%2C1404px%2C935px&resize=600%2C400 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1282122299-b8f7529.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&crop=5px%2C593px%2C1404px%2C935px&resize=900%2C599 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1282122299-b8f7529.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&crop=5px%2C593px%2C1404px%2C935px&resize=1200%2C799 4x" type="image/webp">
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<source media="(min-width: 768px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1282122299-b8f7529.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&crop=5px%2C593px%2C1404px%2C935px&resize=408%2C272, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1282122299-b8f7529.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&crop=5px%2C593px%2C1404px%2C935px&resize=816%2C543 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1282122299-b8f7529.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&crop=5px%2C593px%2C1404px%2C935px&resize=1224%2C815 3x" type="image/webp">
<source media="(min-width: 768px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1282122299-b8f7529.jpg?quality=90&crop=5px%2C593px%2C1404px%2C935px&resize=408%2C272, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1282122299-b8f7529.jpg?quality=45&crop=5px%2C593px%2C1404px%2C935px&resize=816%2C543 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1282122299-b8f7529.jpg?quality=45&crop=5px%2C593px%2C1404px%2C935px&resize=1224%2C815 3x" type="image/jpeg">
<source media="(min-width: 590px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1282122299-b8f7529.jpg?webp=true&quality=90&crop=5px%2C593px%2C1404px%2C935px&resize=556%2C370, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1282122299-b8f7529.jpg?webp=true&quality=45&crop=5px%2C593px%2C1404px%2C935px&resize=1112%2C741 2x" type="image/webp">
<source media="(min-width: 590px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1282122299-b8f7529.jpg?quality=90&crop=5px%2C593px%2C1404px%2C935px&resize=556%2C370, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1282122299-b8f7529.jpg?quality=45&crop=5px%2C593px%2C1404px%2C935px&resize=1112%2C741 2x" type="image/jpeg">
<img data-crop-width="1404" data-crop-height="935" class="wp-image-913998 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image–full no-wrap js-lazyload" srcset="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" data-src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2024/10/GettyImages-1282122299-b8f7529.jpg?quality=90&crop=5px%2C593px%2C1404px%2C935px&resize=620%2C413" width="620" height="413" alt="Traditional Christmas beetroot soup borsch with small dumplings stuffed with mushrooms close top view" title="Christmas beetroot borscht in ceramic bowl on the holiday table, top view. Traditional Christmas Eve soup in Poland">
</source></source></source></source></source></source></source></source></source></source></source></source></source></source></picture>
</div>
<h3>Polish Christmas dinner</h3>
<p>Christmas dinner is traditionally free of meat, eggs and milk in Poland. Although not everyone in Poland strictly abides to these Orthodox religious practices, you can expect to see a fairly fish-heavy table on the 24 December (their Christmas Day). The meal includes 12 dishes – one to represent each of the apostles and months of the year – and starts when the first star in the night sky can be seen. Carp, <a href="/recipes/borsch">borsch</a> (with or without meat) or <a href="/recipes/beetroot-soup-feta-radish-croutons">beetroot soup</a> and a <a href="/recipes/pierogi">sauerkraut version of the popular pierogi dumplings</a> can all be part of the spread, which is known as <em>Wigilia</em>.</p>
<p>Ukraine and Lithuania similarly celebrate Christmas with a 12-dish dinner. Discover our <a href="/recipes/collection/polish-recipes">Polish recipes</a> and <a href="/howto/guide/top-10-ukrainian-inspired-recipes-to-try">Ukrainian-inspired recipes to try</a>.</p>
<h3>Polish Christmas food traditions</h3>
<p>In Poland there is no tradition of leaving out snacks for Father Christmas and his reindeer, and some children receive presents on 6 December for Saint Nicholas Day. Traditionally, Polish people don’t drink alcohol on 24 December, and instead drink a fruit compote-like drink made with dried fruit and warming spices.</p>
<h3>10. Germany</h3>
<div class="image-handler__container image-handler__container–aspect" style="padding-bottom: calc(100% / 1.501210653753);">
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<source media="(max-width: 320px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=90&resize=299%2C199, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=45&resize=599%2C399 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=45&resize=899%2C599 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=45&resize=1199%2C799 4x" type="image/webp">
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<source media="(max-width: 375px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=90&resize=354%2C236, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=45&resize=708%2C472 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=45&resize=1064%2C709 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=45&resize=1418%2C945 4x" type="image/webp">
<source media="(max-width: 375px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?quality=90&resize=354%2C236, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?quality=45&resize=708%2C472 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?quality=45&resize=1064%2C709 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?quality=45&resize=1418%2C945 4x" type="image/gif">
<source media="(max-width: 425px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=90&resize=404%2C269, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=45&resize=809%2C539 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=45&resize=1214%2C809 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=45&resize=1619%2C1079 4x" type="image/webp">
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<source media="(min-width: 768px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=90&resize=407%2C271, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=45&resize=815%2C543 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=45&resize=1223%2C815 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=45&resize=1631%2C1087 4x" type="image/webp">
<source media="(min-width: 768px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?quality=90&resize=407%2C271, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?quality=45&resize=815%2C543 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?quality=45&resize=1223%2C815 3x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?quality=45&resize=1631%2C1087 4x" type="image/gif">
<source media="(min-width: 590px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=90&resize=555%2C370, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=45&resize=1110%2C740 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?webp=true&quality=45&resize=1667%2C1111 3x" type="image/webp">
<source media="(min-width: 590px)" data-srcset="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?quality=90&resize=555%2C370, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?quality=45&resize=1110%2C740 2x, https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?quality=45&resize=1667%2C1111 3x" type="image/gif">
<img class="wp-image-847196 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image–aspect no-wrap js-lazyload" srcset="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" data-src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2023/11/stollen-plait-65db42b.gif?quality=90&resize=620%2C413" width="620" height="413" alt="Spiced stollen plait with a couple of slices on a plate" title="stollen-plait">
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</div>
<h3>German Christmas dinner</h3>
<p>A typical German Christmas dinner usually involves roast meat such as duck or goose as well as potato and red cabbage on the side. <a href="/recipes/collection/stollen-recipes">Stollen</a> and a <a href="/recipes/collection/gingerbread-house-recipes">gingerbread house</a> will often finish off proceedings.</p>
<p>Try your hand at our <a href="/recipes/collection/german-recipes">German recipes</a> and <a href="/recipes/collection/german-dessert-recipes">German dessert recipes</a>. Next try our <a href="/howto/guide/10-twists-on-stollen">twists on stollen</a>.</p>
<h3>German Christmas food traditions</h3>
<p>In Germany, Santa and his reindeer get a break from all the sweet treats with hand-written letters left out by children as he delivers presents.</p>
<p>Markets play an integral role during Christmas festivities in Germany, with many people visiting them from all over the world. <a href="/recipes/gluhwein">Gluhwein</a> (similar to mulled wine) is drunk, and bratwurst (German sausage) and currywurst are enjoyed by many at the Christmas markets. Find out <a href="/travel/europe/best-european-christmas-markets">the best European Christmas markets</a> to visit.</p>
<h2>More Christmas recipe inspiration</h2>
<p><a href="/howto/guide/complete-christmas-menu-crowd">Christmas menu for a crowd<br>
</a><a href="/howto/guide/complete-christmas-menu-two">Christmas menu for two</a><br>
<a href="/recipes/collection/christmas-day-drinks-recipes">Christmas Day drinks recipes</a><br>
<a href="/recipes/collection/non-alcoholic-christmas-drinks-recipes">Non-alcoholic Christmas drinks recipes</a><br>
<a href="/howto/guide/twists-pigs-in-blankets">Twists on pigs in blankets</a><br>
<a href="/howto/guide/mulled-wines-twist">Twists on mulled wine</a></p>
<h3>How many of these traditions did you already know about? Let us know how you celebrate Christmas in the comments…</h3>

10 Christmas traditions from around the world

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