Christmas Traditions Around the World: A Holiday Thank You from the Pandy Family
As the last crumbs of pumpkin pie disappear and the Thanksgiving leftovers mysteriously vanish (we're not pointing fingers, but someone definitely ate that last slice at midnight), the holiday season officially kicks into high gear. Christmas has arrived! It's the time of year when twinkling lights outnumber the stars, cookies somehow become a food group, and traditions—both timeless and delightfully odd—fill the air.
But here's the fun part: while most of us think Christmas equals stockings, carols, and Santa squeezing himself down a chimney that defies basic geometry, the rest of the world has come up with some truly creative ways to celebrate. Hop aboard the Pandy's reindeer-powered world tour as we take a peek at the wonderfully weird and heartwarming ways Christmas is celebrated across the globe!
Japan: KFC for Christmas
Let's begin in Japan, where Christmas dinner means one thing: fried chicken. Yes, thanks to an inspired KFC marketing campaign from the 1970s, families now place reservations weeks ahead to enjoy a bucket of golden, crispy "Christmas cheer." In Japan, Colonel Sanders doesn't just resemble Santa—he is Santa, just with better chicken and no sleigh maintenance.
Iceland: The Yule Lads
Next stop: Iceland, home of the infamous Yule Lads. These 13 mischievous characters visit children each night leading up to Christmas, leaving small gifts in shoes. Behave, and you'll wake to a treat. Misbehave, and you get… a raw potato. The Lads' names are legendary—Spoon-Licker, Door-Slammer, Sausage-Swiper—clearly proving that Iceland takes holiday fun to a whole new level of weird.
Mexico: Las Posadas
In Mexico, Christmas feels like one giant fiesta thanks to Las Posadas, a nine-night celebration reenacting Mary and Joseph's search for shelter. Each evening, families parade through neighborhoods, sing traditional songs, break brightly colored piñatas, and feast on tamales and ponche. If Christmas joy could be bottled, it would probably taste like Mexican hot punch.
Italy: La Befana
Over in Italy, the gift-giving spotlight belongs to La Befana, the friendly, broomstick-riding witch who visits homes on January 5th. Legend says she missed her chance to accompany the Wise Men to Bethlehem, so she spends eternity delivering gifts to children instead. Think of her as Santa's practical, slightly soot-covered cousin.
Germany: The Christmas Pickle
Germany, as always, is the overachiever of Christmas traditions. They gave us gingerbread, Advent calendars, ornate markets, and perhaps the oddest tree tradition of all—the Christmas pickle. A pickle ornament is hidden on the tree, and whoever finds it gets an extra present or extra bragging rights. It's wholesome family fun… with a sour twist.
More Global Quirks
Now let's sprinkle in a few more global quirks, because the world's holiday creativity deserves applause:
- Norway: Families hide their brooms on Christmas Eve to keep witches and evil spirits from stealing them for a joyride. Somewhere, La Befana is deeply offended.
- Venezuela: Christmas morning begins with people roller-skating—yes, roller-skating—to church. Streets are even closed to traffic. If you've ever wanted to witness a priest blessing a congregation wearing kneepads, Caracas is the place.
- Austria: Things get interesting with Krampus, the fearsome creature who tags along with St. Nicholas. While St. Nick hands out treats, Krampus deals with the naughty children. It's a classic good cop/bad cop holiday duo—festive, but slightly terrifying.
- Philippines: Christmas isn't a holiday—it's a season. It kicks off in September. Yes, September! Filipinos put up decorations and start singing carols long before the rest of us have dug out our sweaters.
The Heart of It All
As quirky as these traditions may be, they all share the same heart: joy, family, and the magic of togetherness. And here at Pandy's, those values are at the root of everything we do.
As we head into another beautiful season filled with twinkling lights and glitter that somehow sticks around until April, we want to thank you. For 64 years, you've welcomed us into your homes, your holidays, and your traditions—from themed Christmas trees (we still love the Taylor Swift fans) to DIY gnome-making parties and new traditions you've shared with us year after year.
Inside our Christmas Wonderland, we don't just sell ribbons, ornaments, and wreaths—we help create memories. Whether you come searching for the perfect tree, need expert advice on decorating, or simply want to escape the chaos and stroll through a little Christmas magic, we're honored to be part of your season.
Our Holiday Wish for You
So as you gather with loved ones—whether you're feasting, unwrapping gifts, watching classic movies, or simply savoring quiet moments by the fire—we wish you a holiday filled with laughter, warmth, and wonder.
Here's to continuing traditions, starting new ones, spreading more cheer, and sharing a whole lot of joy. Thank you for letting the Pandy family be part of your Christmas story for more than six decades.
J.R. Pandy, "The No B.S. Gardener"
Pandy's Premier Garden Center
440-324-4314
www.pandysgardencenter.com
