Holiday Traditions Around the World - And the Customs We’ve Adopted Along the Way
- Christianne Klein
- 15 hours ago
- 3 min read
Many of the holiday traditions we celebrate today traveled across oceans and generations before becoming part of modern holiday culture in the United States. From decorated trees and candlelit rituals to festive foods and gift-giving customs, countries around the world have shaped the way we celebrate the season. These global traditions have blended together, creating the holidays as we know them today.
Germany
Germany has influenced modern holiday celebrations more than almost any other country. The tradition of decorating a Christmas tree (Tannenbaum) originated here and spread worldwide in the 19th century. Germany is also known for its festive Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte), which inspired pop-up holiday villages across the globe. Advent calendars, gingerbread houses, and mulled wine (Glühwein) all trace their roots back to German holiday customs.
Spain
From Spain comes the tradition of celebrating Epiphany and the Three Kings. El Día de los Reyes Magos on January 6 remains one of Spain’s most important holidays and influenced the idea of delayed gift-giving beyond Christmas Day. Parades, storytelling, and festive pastries like roscón de reyes have inspired similar celebrations in other countries.
Italy
Italy has given the world rich religious traditions and iconic holiday imagery. Nativity scenes (presepi) originated here and are now displayed in homes, churches, and public spaces worldwide. Italians also introduced extended holiday celebrations, with gift-giving continuing through January 6 via La Befana, a folklore figure who delivers presents to children - a tradition that helped shape later gift-bringers in other cultures.
Sweden
Sweden introduced the idea of celebrating light during the darkest time of year. St. Lucia Day, held on December 13, features candlelit processions that inspired modern candle ceremonies and winter festivals focused on light. Scandinavian traditions also contributed cozy winter concepts like hygge, encouraging candlelit gatherings, warm drinks, and slow, meaningful moments during the holidays.
Mexico
Mexico brought us deeply communal holiday traditions centered on faith and celebration. Las Posadas, reenacting Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, influenced community-based holiday events and pageants in many countries. Piñatas, now a staple of celebrations worldwide, also trace their roots to Mexico’s holiday customs.
France
France shaped how we celebrate with food during the holidays. The idea of a lavish, multi-course holiday feast comes from French traditions like Le Réveillon, a late-night meal enjoyed after Christmas Eve services. Classic desserts such as the Bûche de Noël (Yule log cake) inspired countless holiday desserts around the world.
United Kingdom
Many beloved holiday customs originated in the UK. Christmas cards, caroling, and the modern idea of Christmas dinner were popularized during the Victorian era. Crackers, festive pudding, and mistletoe traditions all come from British holiday celebrations and remain staples in homes worldwide.
Japan
Japan demonstrates how traditions evolve across cultures. While Christmas is not a religious holiday there, Japan popularized the idea of celebrating the season through food and togetherness - most famously with Christmas fried chicken (traditionally, KFC) and elaborate gift exchanges. Japan’s approach influenced how holidays can be festive, flexible, and culturally adapted.
Norway
From Norway comes one of the most iconic holiday symbols of all: the Christmas tree gifted annually to Trafalgar Square in London. Norway also contributed folklore traditions, including stories of elves and winter spirits, which helped shape modern holiday mythology.
Australia
In Australia, the holidays fall during summer, inspiring beach celebrations, barbecues, and outdoor gatherings. We were able to take part in Australian Christmas last year, and it was a fun break from the cold, icy weather in the US. This influenced the idea that holidays don’t have to look one way - traditions can be adapted to climate, culture, and lifestyle, encouraging modern celebrations that feel personal rather than prescribed.
A Global Celebration
Today’s holiday traditions are a global blend - borrowed, shared, and lovingly adapted over time. Whether it’s a German tree, an Italian nativity, a Mexican piñata, or a British Christmas card, the holidays reflect how interconnected the world truly is. And that shared spirit of celebration is what makes the season so meaningful, no matter where or how you celebrate.
Christianne Klein is an Emmy® and Edward R. Murrow Award-winning TV Host, journalist, travel and lifestyle expert, and founder of FoodFamilyTravel.com.
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