The preparations for the most celebrated event Christmas begin right after the start of December each year. There are different customs and traditions which are followed by the Christian community around the world. According to the country’s culture and ancestors’ traditions, some countries are unique in their Christmas celebrations.

Sweden- Gävle Goats

Since medieval pagan rituals, the Yule Goat has been a Swedish Christmas symbol. However, in 1966, the custom received a whole new life after someone came up with the idea to create a big straw goat, now referred to as the Gävle Goat. The big goat is 43 feet long and 23 feet wide with a weight of 3.6 tons built in the same location every year.

Philippines- Ligligan Parul

Every year, the city of San Fernando holds Ligligan Parul (or Giant Lantern Festival) displaying spectacular parols (lanterns) that symbolize the Star of Bethlehem. Each parol comprises thousands of rotating lights that adorn the night sky.

Finland- Porridge Eating

Finnish families traditionally consume porridge consisting of rice and milk topped with cinnamon, milk, or butter on Christmas morning. Whoever finds the almond hidden inside one of the puddings will be the winner. It is traditional to warm up in a sauna together at the end of the day.

Denmark- Home Decorations

Homes are now decorated with superstitious characters known as nisser, who is thought to bring protection. On the evening of December 24, Danish households set their Christmas tree in the center of the room and sing carols around it.

Ireland- Candle Lighting

A tall red candle is traditionally left in a front window by the Irish people overnight as a sign of safety and protection. In Ireland, homemade roast goose, veggies, cranberries, and potatoes are common holiday cuisine and their demand is increases in the last week of December every year. 

Some other Common ways of Celebrating Christmas

All around the world people celebrate Christmas by exchanging gifts, praying at church, spreading happiness, decorating Christmas trees, spending time with friends and family, and visiting Christmas tree shops to purchase and show affection towards religion. All in all, the celebrations start on 25 Dec and continue until 1 Jan of the new year.

Remit Choice is equally involved in the celebrations of Christmas, with us you can send gifts to your loved ones to make this event special and memorable even while staying far away from them. Merry Christmas to everyone in the Christian community living around the globe.