Weird and Wonderful Festive Traditions From Around the World
The festive season is a time of joy, celebration, and of course, some pretty peculiar traditions. While most people associate the holidays with family dinners and gift exchanges, some parts of the world take it to a whole new level. Let’s look at some of the unimaginable festive customs from around the world.
1. The Christmas Pickle (USA)
No, it’s not a typo. In some American households, decoration in the shape of a pickle is hidden on a Christmas tree. The first person to find it on Christmas morning gets a special gift or good luck for the year. Why a pickle? No one really knows, but it adds a fun twist to decorating!
2. KFC for Christmas (Japan)
Forget turkey and stuffing—Christmas in Japan often means a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken. Thanks to a wildly successful 1970s marketing campaign, KFC became synonymous with Christmas dinner. Orders are placed weeks in advance!
3. Venezuela's Roller Skating to Church
In Caracas, it’s a tradition to roller skate to early morning church services. Streets are closed to make way for skaters gliding their way to Christmas mass. It is usually a unique mix of devotion and fun.
4. Spider Web Decorations (Ukraine)
In Ukraine, spiders are symbols of good fortune. Families decorate Christmas trees with spider web-shaped ornaments, inspired by a folktale about spiders weaving webs for a poor family’s tree.
5. Krampus Night (Austria)
Not all festive traditions are jolly. In Austria, Krampus—a terrifying horned creature—roams the streets punishing naughty children. It’s the ultimate incentive for kids to behave!
These traditions remind us the festive season is about embracing unique customs and celebrating the diversity that makes the world so wonderfully weird.
See also: Taoma’s Festive Take: "Don’t Spend Like Them"
