In Australia, Christmas is a unique blend of summer vibes and festive cheer.
From leaving out cookies, milk, or even a cold beer for Santa to enjoying a Christmas BBQ and counting down the days with advent calendars, these traditions are at the heart of how we celebrate.
But around the world, Christmas looks very different, with each country bringing its own unique customs to the season. Here’s a look at how other nations celebrate the festive season…
France: Carrots for Santa’s Donkey and Shoes by the Fire
In France, children leave out carrots for Santa’s donkey, Gui, instead of cookies and beer. And rather than stockings, it’s shoes that are placed by the fire, a nod to the story of Saint Nicholas throwing gold coins into shoes or stockings, depending on the version you hear. The French also celebrate on a slightly different schedule, with the main festivities happening on Christmas Eve. Families gather for a lavish meal featuring Le Réveillon, turkey stuffed with chestnuts (Dinde aux marrons), foie gras, and the iconic Bûche de Noël (Yule Log cake). Gift-opening often begins that same evening, adding to the magic of the night.
Italy: A Month-Long Celebration with Santa and a Festive Witch
In Italy, the festive season stretches from 8 December (Feast of the Immaculate Conception) to 6 January (Epiphany). While Santa Claus (Babbo Natale) delivers gifts on Christmas Day, the celebrations continue with La Befana, a broomstick-riding witch who brings sweets and small gifts on Epiphany. Adding to the charm are zampognari (bagpipe players dressed as shepherds), who wander the streets in parts of central and southern Italy, filling the air with festive music. Italians also abstain from meat on Christmas Eve, enjoying seafood dishes instead, before indulging in a grand feast on Christmas Day featuring regional specialties.
Czech Republic: Carp in the Bathtub and the Golden Pig
In the Czech Republic, it’s not Santa but Jezisek (Baby Jesus) who delivers presents, often invisibly sneaking into homes. Christmas dinner on 24 December features pan-fried carp with potato salad, a tradition so central that some families historically kept the carp alive in their bathtubs before cooking it—though this is less common today. Another unique custom is fasting on Christmas Eve in hopes of seeing the “golden pig,” a vision said to bring good luck and prosperity for the year ahead.
Romania: Last-Minute Decorations and Polished Boots
In Romania, Christmas decorations are traditionally put up on Christmas Eve, turning the festive build-up into a one-day whirlwind. On 5 December, children polish their boots and leave them out for Mo? Nicolae (Saint Nicholas). Good children wake to find sweets and small gifts, while those who’ve misbehaved may find a wooden stick instead. Christmas dinner on 24 December features sarmale (cabbage rolls filled with minced meat, rice, and herbs), baked pork steak, and cozonac (a walnut and cocoa-swirled brioche). Preparations often begin days in advance, making the meal a true labor of love.
Poland: Twelve Dishes and a Seat for Unexpected Guests
In Poland, the festive season begins on 6 December with Miko?ajki (St. Nicholas Day), but the main celebration happens on Christmas Eve (Wigilia). Gift-giving varies by region, with figures like ?wi?ty Miko?aj (St. Nicholas), Gwiazdor (Starman), and Dzieci?tko (Baby Jesus) delivering presents. The Wigilia Supper is a feast of twelve symbolic courses, representing the Apostles and the months of the year. Dishes include Barszcz (beetroot soup), pierogi, and fried carp. Families share the Op?atek (unleavened Christmas wafer), breaking off pieces while exchanging heartfelt wishes. An extra place is set at the table for unexpected guests or in memory of loved ones, emphasizing the values of love and hospitality.
From carp in the bathtub to witches delivering gifts, these global traditions highlight the diversity and creativity of Christmas celebrations around the world.
While Australia’s summer festivities are uniquely ours, exploring these customs adds a touch of wonder to the season, reminding us of the many ways people come together to celebrate.
Content explored with DiscoverCars.com.