Christmas in other nations

[cbach8tw]

Since I was curious about Bmurray's trip to Italy, does anyone have any pics, stories, or traditions of Christmas in other nations that can share? Just a thought I would hope others would find interesting too. I also like the Wayfarer comments from another member, so has anyone done any trips and seen these Christmas traditions in the big or small villages and hamlets?

 

[eisman]

I've spent Christmas in Germany, Kuwait, Iraq, and Canada. In the Arab countries Christmas doesn't seem to be a big deal, probably because they don't have much of a Christian population. Ramadan is a much bigger deal, and they go crazy on Eide. Canada seems to be pretty much the same as the US, with the exception that they recognize Boxing Day (26 DEC). Germany tends to focus on Christmas Eve and the 25th. In the small towns I've been part of impromptu parties in the main square where bottles were passed around and everyone sang carols on Christmas Eve. Christmas day is spent at home with family. Even in the big cities you can struggle to find anything open, and hotels/restaurants/etc, if they are open, have limited hours and menus. Train stations are open, but most of the booths inside will be shut.

 

[Andy the Aussie]

Generally Christmas here is eating and drinking too much while trying to stay cool !!!

 

[BD_01]

In the region of Chile I once spent a Christmas, fireworks were part of the tradition (along with food, family, and gifts).

 

[gadunz]

New Zealand Christmas tree, pōhutukawa.

The tree flowers from November to January with a peak in mid to late December (the Southern Hemisphere summer), with brilliant crimson flowers covering the tree, hence the nickname New Zealand Christmas tree.
https://int.search.myway.com/search...tpr=sc&searchfor=pohutukawa&ots=1576549928583