Festive Foods
A traditional British Christmas dessert, a dark, moist cake made with dried fruits and often soaked in brandy, covered in marzipan and icing.
Christmas Pudding
In Italian folklore, this kind old witch delivers gifts to children on the eve of Epiphany (January 5th).
La Befana
What's la Patinata in Caracas?
In Caracas, Venezuela, there is a well-known Christmas tradition where many locals put on roller skates to travel to early morning Misa de Aguinaldo services in the days leading up to Christmas — usually from 16 Dec to 24 Dec. During this period, some streets are closed to traffic early in the morning so people can skate safely to church.
In Italy, particularly in Milan, this light, fruit-studded bread is a Christmas staple, often served with a hot beverage.
Panettone
In Austria, Germany, and parts of the Alps, this terrifying companion of St. Nicholas punishes naughty children. He is often depicted as hairy and carrying chains.
Krampus
What is a Yule Goat (Julbock)?
The Julbock is a traditional Scandinavian Christmas figure believed to date back to pre-Christian pagan rituals.
It has represented:
The goat of Thor (the Norse god),
A guardian of Christmas traditions,
A bringer of gifts before the modern Santa figure took over.
Today, people commonly place small straw Yule Goats tied with red ribbon as Christmas decorations.
In Norway and Denmark, this special rice pudding is made for Christmas Eve, with a single whole almond hidden inside. The finder wins a prize.
Risalamande / Risengrynsgrøt
Who is Grýla?
In Iceland, children are visited by 13 mischievous Yule Lads who leave gifts or rotten potatoes. Their mother is this infamous giantess.
What is the Giant Lantern Festival (Ligligan Parul) of San Fernando?
In the Philippines, this world-renowned tradition features elaborately decorated lanterns made of paper and bamboo, paraded in competitions.
In Japan, it has become a modern tradition for many families to eat this from a popular American fast-food chain for their Christmas dinner.
KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken)
In Catalan tradition, this character, often a smiling log with legs, a hat, and a nose, is "fed" by children in the days before Christmas and then "beaten" to produce small gifts.
Caga Tió
What's the Spoon game in Portugal?
In Portugal, the Consoada feast on Christmas Eve is often followed by a game where people draw small gifts from a bowl, using only this utensil.
In Mexico and Spain, this hot, spicy fruit punch made with red wine, citrus, and spices like cinnamon is a ubiquitous holiday drink.
Ponche Navideño / Sangría Navideña
What is the Ukranian Christmas Spider legend?
In Ukraine, a decorated Christmas tree might feature an artificial spider and web, referencing a folk tale about this creature bringing good luck to a poor family.
In South Africa, what's a "braai"?
A barbecue which is a traditional Christmas meal