The holidays are here, and everyone has something to do this year! But, everyone’s holiday isn’t the same. Here is how the holidays are looking around the world!
In the United States, Christmas Eve is celebrated on December 24th, and Christmas Day on the 25th. Traditionally, Christmas is a holiday to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, observed by those who practice Christianity. Christmas is widely celebrated in the US, as many people with diverse beliefs celebrate this year, we all have one in common in the US. Gift giving, big feasts, and decorating with colorful lights. Some cities put on Christmas parades and even host Christmas tree-lighting ceremonies.
In Japan, Christmas is celebrated but the traditions are very different from what most people think. December 25th is recognized more as a couple’s day than a day for family. KFC chicken is enjoyed on this day, while a Christmas cake is usually brought out to be enjoyed soon after. The Christmas strawberry shortcake cake is usually pre-ordered as they sell very quickly, but it´s considered a tradition that is worth it to be had on Christmas Day.
In Poland, Christmas is separated into the First and Second Christmas. Starting on the evening of December 24th the Christmas family dinner called the Wigilia. This does not start until the first star lights up in the sky which symbolizes the Bethlehem star which led the three Magi to the new baby Jesus. When it is spotted, the celebrations begin. Everyone is seen sharing a wafer and then family members exchange well wishes and sit down at the table which is usually covered with white cloth. Now at the Christmas table, there should be 12 dishes. Each of them needs to be tried. Some Polish Christmas favorites are red borsch, cabbage, mushrooms, and plenty of fish, and then the best part of the table is carp. The Polish believe that no one should be alone or hungry on Christmas evening, so they traditionally leave a spot for an unknown person or they will invite somebody they think might be lonely this Christmas. The celebrations usually continue on December 25 and 26. The Second Day of Christmas is also known as St. Stephen’s Day and as Boxing Day.
In Ethiopia, Christmas is celebrated on January 7th, mainly called Ganna or Genna. But before Christmas is also special. Many people take part in a special Advent fast during the 43 days before Christmas. Starting on the 25th of November and is known as the ‘Fast of the Prophets’. Traditionally one vegan meal is eaten every day because when fasting, foods including meat, dairy, eggs and wine are not eaten. Most people dressed in white are going to Church on Christmas day. People are seen walking around the church three times in a solemn procession while holding candles. As they get to the second circle to stay during the service, the men are separated from the women. The center circle is the most important and holy place in the church. This is where the priest serves the Holy Communion/Mass. Then the Genna food includes ‘wat’, a thick and spicy stew that contains meat, vegetables, and sometimes eggs. 12 days after Christmas, On the 19th of January, the Ethiopians start their three-day celebration of Timkat. Which celebrates the baptism of baby Jesus. Musical instruments are played during the Timkat procession. After the Ethiopian men also play a sport called yeferas guks.
Wherever you are Happy Holidays! Merry Christmas! Crăciun Fericit! Buon Natale! Feliz Natal! Joyeux Noël! Счастливого Рождества!
