The winter months are a chance to take part in some of our much-loved Christmas traditions, but where did they originate from and how do these shared traditions vary across the world?
Nativity
The story of the nativity is celebrated across the world in various forms. Widely thought to have its roots in 13th-century Italy, it’s grown to have lots of global interpretations, with countries folding in their unique cultures and customs.
In India, you might see display cribs made from clay or paper-mâché with Indian-looking figures. While in South Africa, nativity plays often incorporate local languages, dance and indigenous art.
Did you know?
The smallest nativity can be seen in Naples, Italy, by Antonio Maria Esposito at the Museo Divino, including miniscule sculptures carved into a pistachio shell.
Your generosity can transform lives this festive season. With every gift, you provide food, shelter, healthcare and support to families like Chance’s, helping them survive violence and poverty.
Christmas cake
The earliest form of the Christmas cake in the UK was a spiced plum porridge designed to line people’s stomachs after a day of religious fasting.
A rich fruitcake is now the go-to traditional Christmas cake in the UK, but many countries have their own delicious recipes and traditions.
In Ukraine for example, the Kutya is a ceremonial grain pudding with poppy seeds, nuts and honey, shared as a symbol of community and eaten on Christmas Eve and can be accompanied by Kalach - a sweet bread with poppy seeds.
Did you know?
Christmas is not a public holiday in Japan but that doesn’t stop them commemorating it with a unique strawberry and cream cake that is widely sold across the country only at this time of year.
December 25
In Catholic and Protestant traditions, Christmas is celebrated on December 25 to celebrate the birth of Jesus. While Orthodox Christians and Coptic Orthodox in countries like Russia, Serbia, Greece and Egypt celebrate in January.
Did you know?
In Ethiopia, Christmas (called Genna) is celebrated on January 7, following the Ethiopian Orthodox calendar. It is marked by fasting, all-night church liturgies and a traditional hockey-like game.
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No crib for a bed... when you’re fleeing violence
As the festive season approaches, a time traditionally marked by tidings of peace and joy, we invite you to consider the reality of those facing unimaginable hardship due to violence.
Traditional Christmas dinner
Christmas dinners have evolved over centuries. While roast turkey graces many tables in the UK, it’s a relatively new addition that can be traced back to the 1500s.
Around the world, a traditional Christmas dinner varies a lot. A Christmas feast in Democratic Republic of Congo, can include moambe (a delicious stew made from palm nuts), lituma (pounded plantain), sombe (stewed cassava leaves), rice, beans, fufu, and grilled fish and is shared communally, without courses. Celebrations then begin all over again for New Year Pati.
Did you know?
The UK currently holds the Guiness Book of Record for the largest individual Christmas dinner.
Christmas ornaments
Hanging Christmas tree decorations are a treasured family moment and remind us of the importance of giving, but these ornaments are also symbols of hope, renewal, and protection.
- Star: This stands for the Star of Bethlehem (Matthew 2:2)
- Angels: Symbolise the angelic proclamation of Christ’s birth (Luke 2:10–14)
- Lights: Remind us that Jesus is the Light of the world (John 8:12)
- Red ornaments: Symbolise Christ’s blood and sacrificial love
Over the years, materials for ornaments have grown from blown glass, wood, and paper to LED-lit ornaments, motion sensors, and AR/VR experiences.
Did you know?
Tinsel was invented in 1610 and made from genuine spun silver. These days, neither lead nor silver make up the common stringy tinsel which is now made from plastic.
Christmas is a special time wherever you are. Give today and spread joy and hope to those that need it the most.
Christmas trees
The origin of the traditional Christmas tree in the UK is often attributed to Germany. However, these evergreen conifer trees (usually a spruce, pine or fir) were also symbolic in ancient pre-Christian cultures, to represent everlasting life, fertility and renewal during winter solstice celebrations.
Across parts of Africa, Latin America and Asia, you might see Cypress trees, mango trees and palm trees more commonly used as Christmas trees.
Did you know?
Legend has it that Martin Luther was one of the first people to have brought a Christmas tree into the home and decorate it with candles.
