A Global Celebration: Exploring Traditions Around the World from Dec 21 to Dec 26

Celebrations around the world. Which do you celebrate?

The end of the year brings with it a tapestry of traditions and celebrations that span cultures and continents. As December unfolds, various societies around the world come together to honor their unique histories, beliefs, and customs. From the winter solstice to Christmas and beyond, let’s embark on a journey to discover the rich tapestry of traditions observed globally from December 21st to December 26th.

Which celebrations do you take part in? Leave us a comment.

Winter Solstice - dECEMBER 21

The winter solstice marks the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. (In the Southern hemisphere, it’s celebrated June 20 or 21). Since ancient times, people all over the world have recognized this important astronomical occurrence and celebrated the subsequent “return” of the Sun in a variety of different ways. In fact, the old solstice tradition has influenced newer celebrations like Hanukkah and Christmas.

Many cultures celebrate this astronomical event with rituals and festivals. In Scandinavia, people light bonfires to symbolize the return of the sun. In China, the Dongzhi Festival is observed with family reunions and the consumption of tangyuan, sweet rice balls. Soyal is the winter solstice celebration of the Hopi Indians of Northern Arizona, whose tradition includes purification, dancing and sometimes gift-giving.

Pancha Ganapati - DECEMBER 22

In Hindu tradition, Pancha Ganapati is a five-day festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Celebrated from December 21 to 25, each day represents a different aspect of the deity. Families decorate their homes, exchange gifts, and partake in festive meals to honor Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.

The Pancharatras originated in the Himalayan region around the 3rd century BCE. The name is attributed to a five-day-long sacrifice (pancha-ratra) performed by Narayana by which he obtained superiority over all beings and became all beings.

Festivus - DECEMBER 23

If you’re a Seinfeld fan, you’ll recognize Festivus, and maybe even celebrate it – heck, why not?

Festivus comes from the hit ’90s sitcom. In an episode titled “The Strike,” which first aired on NBC on Dec 18, 1997, George Costanza’s family celebrates Festivus as an alternative to Christmas.

Noche buena - DECEMBER 24

Across many Spanish-speaking countries, December 24th is celebrated as Noche Buena, a festive evening preceding Christmas Day. Families gather for a grand feast, often featuring traditional dishes like bacalao (salted codfish) and lechón (roast pig). Midnight Mass is a central part of the celebration, followed by the exchange of gifts and joyous festivities. This holiday is also celebrated by the Christian Latinx, a gender-neutral term referring to someone living in the USA, who was born in or has ancestors in Latin America.

Many people also go to midnight mass and open one gift (or all) on Christmas Eve. If you’d like to start your own tradition, there’s a wonderful children’s book that’s perfect for reading the night before Christmas. It’s called ‘Twas the Night Santa Fell on His Head,” a book written by C.J. Beny (who happens to be the author of this article and this site The Spunky Skipper.) Learn more before buying here.

'Twas the Night Santa Fell on His Head

What readers are saying, “My kiddos loved this book! The rhyming is wonderful and the illustrations are gorgeous. Highly recommend.” Sandra.

Q. Liang said, “Made my heart sing.” What a beautiful piece of art sprinkled with humor and heart-warming twists to a lovely story. The illustrations are nicely done as well. If you are looking for a light, smile-inducing Christmas read/gift, this would be a perfect choice.

Patty adds, “…The story is so cute. My grandchildren loved it. It can be read at night while you put your children to bed. The illustration are beautiful. Well written. Good fo quality time with your family . I received this book for my honest review. I give it voluntarily with two thumbs up from my grandchildren.

Christmas - DECEMBER 25

Christmas, one of the most widely celebrated holidays worldwide, holds diverse traditions across cultures. In Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, midnight Mass takes place at the Church of the Nativity. In Japan, Christmas is marked by a unique tradition of enjoying KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken) meals, while in Australia, beachgoers often celebrate with barbecues and outdoor activities. How do you celebrate Christmas?

Kwanzaa - DECEMBER 26

Kwanzaa, an African-American and Pan-African holiday, begins on December 26 and lasts for seven days. Created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, Kwanzaa focuses on seven principles, or Nguzo Saba, including unity, self-determination, and creativity. Families come together to light the Kinara, exchange handmade gifts, and reflect on the values that Kwanzaa represents.