The magic of Christmas around the world

Did you know that in South Korea, Christmas is primarily viewed as a couples' holiday, unlike the family-centered traditions in most parts of the world? The atmosphere feels more like a snowy Valentine's Day than a typical family gathering.

Known for captivating the world with their heartwarming Korean drama narratives, South Korea encourages you to spend time with your jagiya (자기야) this holiday season, adding a touch of romance to the festivities. Couples exchange heartfelt gifts and enjoy candlelit dinners, making it a unique and memorable way to celebrate Christmas.

Meanwhile, in Japan, Christmas isn't complete without a bucket of fried chicken from a popular fast-food chain. This quirky tradition has become so beloved that people pre-order their meals as soon as the chain unveils its annual holiday-themed plates. Even tourists find this tradition fascinating, often documenting their quest to secure the perfect festive meal before it sells out.

The origins of this practice date back to a successful marketing campaign in the 1970s, proving how a simple idea can transform into a nationwide holiday custom.

Moving to the southern hemisphere, Australia offers a sun-soaked twist on Christmas celebrations. With summer in full swing, Australians trade cozy sweaters for swimsuits and flock to beaches for festive activities.

A highlight is the annual Santa Surfing Challenge at Bondi Beach, where participants don red suits and ride the waves to the delight of spectators. The vibrant mix of holiday cheer and sunny vibes makes Christmas Down Under feel like a celebration on another planet.

In the United States, the festive season brings a different kind of competition: choosing the perfect tree for Rockefeller Center. This year, the chosen tree was donated by the Albert family from Massachusetts. Planted decades ago when Earl and Leslie Albert were newlyweds, the tree carries a love story of its own.

Leslie, a holiday enthusiast, always dreamed of contributing to Christmas magic, and her family saw donating the tree as a tribute to her memory. Now standing tall in Rockefeller Center, the tree symbolizes love, joy, and cherished memories.

Speaking of picturesque holiday settings, the Netherlands, Norway, and Austria bring Christmas dreams to life with their enchanting landscapes. Adorned with colorful houses and glowing iridescent lights, these destinations resemble scenes straight out of a Hallmark movie. Tourists and locals alike revel in street festivals, bustling Christmas markets, and thrilling skiing adventures.

The charm of these snow-blessed countries feels like stepping into a Christmas village from childhood memories.

From snowy landscapes to warm traditions, Finland offers a unique way to embrace the holiday spirit with cozy sauna baths. This beloved tradition is a time for relaxation and togetherness, as families gather to enjoy the soothing warmth of a Finnish sauna.

Paired with festive meals and heartfelt conversations, this practice reflects Finland's emphasis on finding comfort and joy during the cold winter months. Whether you're chasing the Northern Lights or simply unwinding in the sauna, Finland's approach to Christmas is both serene and heartwarming.

The United Kingdom embraces Christmas with two iconic traditions: the annual Royal Christmas Message and festive crackers. Every year, on 25 December, the reigning monarch delivers a heartfelt message to the nation and Commonwealth, reflecting on the year's events and spreading goodwill.

Following Queen Elizabeth's passing, King Charles III continued the tradition of delivering the Christmas message. Families gather around their televisions to listen, a practice that’s become as much a part of Christmas Day as pulling crackers at the dinner table. These colorful paper novelties, filled with small gifts, jokes, and paper crowns, add a playful touch to the festivities, perfectly embodying the British blend of tradition and holiday cheer.

Colombia kicks off the Christmas season with the "Day of the Little Candles" (Día de las Velitas) on 7 December. This beautiful tradition honors the Virgin Mary and the Immaculate Conception, with streets, windows, and balconies aglow from countless candles and lanterns. Families and neighbors gather to light candles, creating a warm and serene atmosphere that marks the start of the holiday festivities. The sight of flickering lights illuminating cities and towns reflects Colombia’s deep sense of community and devotion.

In Rome, Christmas is celebrated with great reverence through the Midnight Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, a highlight of the season. Thousands of pilgrims and visitors gather in Vatican City for this solemn, spiritual event, led by the Pope himself. The grand Basilica, adorned with majestic decorations and the sounds of choral hymns, creates an awe-inspiring atmosphere.

For those unable to attend in person, the Mass is televised worldwide, allowing millions to join in the reverence and joy of this cherished tradition.

As for the country that holds the record for the longest Christmas celebration in the world, the Christmas season in the Philippines begin as soon as the calendar flips to a month ending in "ber."

Classic Christmas carols fill the air, while the enticing aroma of roasted castañas, bibingka, and puto bumbong wafts through the night. Christmas Eve is often a cherished time spent with family and neighbors, sharing meals and creating warm memories together.

No matter where you are in the world or the reason for your celebration, we hope your Christmas is filled with delicious food, meaningful company, and abundant love.

As 2024 comes into conclusion, may our hearts and lives be brimming with joy and peace, reminding us of the true spirit of the season.