Canada
Magical parades and lit-up houses!
Christmas traditions by country
Discover how the magic of Christmas is celebrated all over the world!
Amazing customs, legends and unique traditions that make the spirit of Christmas shine in every country.
Click a country to discover its traditions!
All over the world the same spirit: sharing the magic of Christmas!
Swipe the map and tap a country
Discovering the traditions
Browse a selection of countries and dive into their Christmas customs!
United States
Grand decorations and Santa as the big star!
Mexico
Las Posadas, nine days of celebration!
France
Christmas markets full of charm!
Germany
Fairy-tale markets and traditional biscuits!
Italy
The nativity scene, a tradition at the heart of every home!
United Kingdom
Christmas carols and Boxing Day!
Russia
Fairy tales and Ded Moroz, Grandfather Frost!
Japan
A modern Christmas in fairy-tale colours!
Australia
Christmas in the sun, feet in the sand!
Frequently asked questions about Christmas traditions
Find the answers to the most common questions here!
What are the most surprising Christmas traditions?
The nine evenings of Posadas in Mexico, the Befana handing out presents in Italy on 6 January, or Santa on a surfboard in Australia: every country has its magical touch.
What are the Christmas food specialities in each country?
The Yule log in France, panettone in Italy, Stollen and Lebkuchen in Germany, pudding in the United Kingdom or tourtière in Quebec. Find our ideas in the Christmas recipes.
Are there countries that do not celebrate Christmas?
Yes, in some countries Christmas is not an official holiday. Yet it is often celebrated joyfully, with decorations and lights, as in Japan or China.
What are the different legends of Santa Claus?
Santa Claus, Papai Noel, Ded Moroz and his granddaughter Snegurochka, Saint Nicholas or the Befana: the gift-bringers change names, but the magic stays the same.
How do children celebrate Christmas around the world?
Stockings by the fireplace, shoes by the tree, boots filled by Saint Nicholas or piñatas: everywhere, children wait for their presents with the same excitement.
Can you visit these countries to experience Christmas differently?
Of course! Europe’s Christmas markets, Japan’s illuminations or a summer Christmas in Australia are all ways to see the holiday in a new light.