Not Just Changing Gifts, 7 Most Unique Christmas Traditions in Various Countries in the World

JAKARTA - Christmas celebrations in various countries are often filled with different typical nuances. Not only about giving and receiving gifts, some countries actually have unique traditions, full of meaning, and reflect the culture and values of the local community.

Here are 7 of the most interesting Christmas traditions from around the world that can inspire you to celebrate the holiday season in a more meaningful way, as reported by the BBC website.

1. Iceland - Reading a Book Under the Light of Candles

In Iceland, the most famous Christmas tradition is jólabókaflóð or 'Christmas book flood'. Every year before Christmas, book publishing increases rapidly and books become the most popular gift.

On the evening of December 24, families exchange books, have dinner together, and then spend the night reading new books under the light of candles, often accompanied by chocolate and warm drinks.

This tradition began during World War II, when paper was one of the few items still available and books were a practical gift. In this way, Christmas is not just about gifts, but also a celebration of the pleasure of reading and family closeness.

2. Japan - Christmas ala Valentine's Night

As a country with a majority of non-Christian population, Japan celebrates Christmas in a different way. Instead of family celebrations, Christmas Eve is more like Valentine's Day, where couples go on dates and spend time together.

Streets are decorated with Christmas lights, restaurants offer special menus, and hotels are often fully booked. The typical Christmas food in Japan is kurisumasu keki, a cream-and-strawberry-topped sponge cake. Japanese traditions teach us to take special time with loved ones in the midst of busyness.

3. Australia - Playing Cricket on Christmas Day

Christmas in Australia falls in the summer, so the atmosphere is bright and relaxed. In addition to eating with the family, a unique tradition in this country is to play cricket on Christmas Day with all family members.

It's not about winning or losing, the most important thing is togetherness. If the players are still small and not skilled, everyone still participates to have fun. For Australians, Christmas is a time to laugh, play, and enjoy the day with family.

4. Finland - Visiting the Family Tomb

In Finland, Christmas is not only about celebration and partying. Many families visit the graves of those who have died on Christmas Eve to light candles and pray for them.

The candles that are lit in between the snow create a quiet and reflective atmosphere. This tradition is often followed by other warm moments such as a family sauna on Christmas Eve. This tradition shows that Christmas can also be a time to remember and honor those who have left.

5. Ukraine - Leaving Profits on the Christmas Tree

Unlike most countries that decorate Christmas trees with balls and stars, in Western Ukraine, the unique ornament is actually a spider web.

This tradition comes from a legend about a spider decorating a tree of a poor woman so that it became very beautiful.

Ukrainian people make a net decoration from paper or wire and wrap it around the tree like tinsel. Even finding a real net or spider on the Christmas tree is considered to bring good luck. This tradition teaches us to see beauty in simple and unexpected things.

6. Denmark - Make Your Own Christmas Decorations

In Denmark, Christmas is a time to gather and get creative. Many families, schools, and offices hold sessions to make their own Christmas decorations, such as paper stars, hearts, and garlands.

This activity is known as klippe klistre which means 'cutting and sticking'. Usually accompanied by typical snacks such as æbleskiver (small Christmas donuts) and gløgg drinks (warm spiced wine). This tradition helps create togetherness while celebrating creativity.

7. Venezuela - Go to Mass in Wheel Shoes

One of the most unique traditions comes from Venezuela. Every year between December 16 and 24, people go to the Christmas morning church (Misa de Aguinaldo) using roller skates. They glide on the streets that are still quiet before dawn.

Children often go to bed early to be ready for the early morning mass, while adults participate while socializing along the way. This tradition turns a religious moment into something fun and full of togetherness.