Here in Australia, Christmas is synonymous with summer—the beach, prawns, and Santa rocking sunnies. It’s also become a rite of passage for many of us to head to the northern hemisphere for our first cold Christmas, marvelling at the extravagant decorations, dressing warmly for the cold and, ideally, snow-laden streets, all with a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine in hand. The kind of Christmas we saw in the movies as kids!

As someone fascinated by how traditions shape our experiences, I thought it would be fun to share some of the most interesting, familiar and diverse Christmas customs from around the world. Whether you’re an experienced traveller or someone looking to embrace new holiday traditions, there’s something magical about learning how other parts of the world come together to celebrate.

Darn, now I’ve made my Christmas travel list a whole lot longer…

1. Christmas in Mexico: Las Posadas and Piñatas

In Mexico, Christmas celebrations stretch well beyond December 25th, starting with Las Posadas, a lively tradition that re-enacts Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter. From December 16th to Christmas Eve, families travel from house to house, singing carols and asking for a place to stay, only to be denied until they reach the “final” house, where they’re welcomed in with food, drinks, and festivities. It’s an event filled with warmth, community, and joy.

Then there’s the piñata—brightly coloured, festive, and filled with sweets, which is a hit with children (and adults alike!). As the night goes on, you’ll often see people swinging at piñatas while the rest of the group sings traditional Christmas carols. The smell of tamales and the sweet taste of ponche (a warm, spiced fruit punch) make Las Posadas and the Christmas season truly unforgettable in Mexico.

2. Christmas in Germany: The Advent Calendar and Christmas Markets

Germany has long been associated with festive Christmas traditions, and one of the best-known is the Advent Calendar. The Advent calendar helps count down the days until Christmas, with doors revealing a small surprise or treat each day. But it’s the Christmas Markets that truly bring the season (and the Australians!) to Germany. These markets are a feast for the senses, where you can sip on mulled wine (known as Glühwein), nibble on bratwurst, and browse hand-crafted ornaments, all while surrounded by twinkling lights and the scent of gingerbread.

Another German tradition I love is the role of the Christkind, an angel-like figure who brings gifts to children on Christmas Eve. It’s a magical experience, with families gathering for a special dinner, often followed by attending midnight mass. In Germany and many other places around the world, Christmas Eve is almost more important than Christmas Day, with traditions that unite families and celebrate the season with heartfelt devotion.

3. Christmas in Italy: The Feast of the Seven Fishes and La Befana

In Italy, Christmas is full of family traditions and delicious food. One of the most iconic is the Feast of the Seven Fishes, which takes place on Christmas Eve. This elaborate dinner, which includes a variety of seafood dishes, dates back to the Catholic tradition of abstaining from meat before Christmas. It’s not just a meal, it’s an event—a celebration of food, family, and the Italian way of life.

Another beloved tradition is La Befana, a kindly witch who delivers gifts to children on the night of January 5th, marking the eve of the Epiphany. La Befana flies on a broomstick and fills children’s stockings with goodies, much like Santa Claus in other parts of the world. The story is heartwarming, and the holiday festivities continue with plenty of food, laughter, and even parades in many towns. Italy truly knows how to celebrate Christmas with passion and joy.

4. Christmas in Sweden: St. Lucia Day and Swedish Julbord

In Sweden, Christmas begins with St. Lucia Day on December 13th, a beautiful tradition where children dress as “Lucia,” with one girl chosen to wear a white robe, a crown of candles on her head, and lead a procession of song. The day marks the arrival of light during the long, dark Swedish winter, and it’s a deeply moving event filled with light, song, and community spirit.

Then, there’s Julbord, the Swedish Christmas buffet, which is a feast for the eyes and the stomach. The spread includes a range of traditional dishes, from pickled herring and gravlax to roast ham and, of course, meatballs. There’s something about gathering around a table full of food, singing Swedish Christmas carols, and enjoying the company of loved ones that makes Christmas in Sweden so special.

5. Christmas in Japan: KFC and Illuminations

Christmas in Japan is celebrated quite differently from most places, but it has its own unique charm. Instead of traditional Christmas dinners, KFC has become the go-to meal for many families. This tradition started in the 1970s when KFC launched a successful holiday marketing campaign, and now it’s a part of the culture. Families line up to order their special Christmas buckets of fried chicken, making it a fun and distinctly Japanese way to celebrate.

Another notable tradition in Japan is the beautiful Christmas illuminations. Cities across the country are decked out with spectacular light displays that draw large crowds each year. While Christmas is not a public holiday in Japan, the lights, festive shopping, and general sense of celebration create a holiday atmosphere that’s both modern and joyful. Japanese Christmas is a combination of family, festive lights, and the spirit of sharing, even if it’s not about the traditional snow or Christmas tree.

6. Christmas in Antarctica: Celebrating the Holidays in the Coldest Place on Earth

You’re probably not surprised to learn that even in the remote, icy expanse of Antarctica, Christmas is celebrated. With the midnight sun comes travellers aboard cruise vessels, and companies such as Aurora, Quark and Silversea ensure the festive atmosphere is present. The shared experience of being so far from home makes Christmas in Antarctica a truly special and memorable occasion.

And of course, the amazing staff at the research stations are treated with festive meals being flown in; I just know that the Aussie researchers still get to enjoy their summer seafood! Summer on scientific bases is a time of great activity and comes right in the middle of the time limited work season, but Secret Santa exchanges and decorations help bring a bit of Christmas cheer to one of the most extreme places on Earth.

7. Christmas in Ethiopia: Genna and Timkat

Ethiopia celebrates Christmas a little later than most, with Genna taking place on January 7th. This holiday is deeply spiritual for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians, marked by a church service followed by a festive meal of injera (a traditional flatbread) and stews. The day is about family, faith, and community.

Timkat, which follows Genna, is another significant celebration. It commemorates the baptism of Jesus and is celebrated with processions, songs, and baptisms in rivers or pools, honouring tradition and faith.

How do you celebrate?

From snowy streets in Europe to sun-drenched beaches in Australia, Christmas traditions around the world are as varied as the people celebrating them. But at the end of the day, the best part of Christmas is the traditions you make for yourself. Whether it’s a quirky family recipe, a new holiday ritual, or just an excuse to eat dessert for breakfast, it’s about what makes you smile. So, why not shake things up this year and start your own tradition? After all, the most memorable Christmases are the ones you create—and who says you can’t make your own rules?

Shall we go to Antarctica next Christmas?