Christmas is in the air 🙂 Get ready to embark on a festive journey as we explore the quirky and unconventional Christmas traditions that paint the world with unique hues of holiday spirit.
From Catalonia’s “Caga Tió” to the Christmas spider in Ukraine, these offbeat celebrations will not only broaden your cultural horizons but also add a dash of eccentricity to your holiday season. And prepare for 11 unique Christmas celebrations that will surprise you!
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So, fasten your seatbelts (or sleigh harnesses) as we dive into the enchanting world of Unconventional Christmas Celebrations!
Catalonia’s “Caga Tió de Nadal”
Our first stop on this festive expedition takes us to Catalonia, Spain, where the locals have a tradition that might make you do a double-take. Meet “Caga Tió de Nadal,” a log with a smiling face that becomes the center of attention during Christmas.
Families “feed” the log treats in the days leading up to Christmas, and on Christmas Eve, they gather around, beat the log with sticks, and sing songs urging it to, well, relieve itself of presents.
You heard it right – it’s a pooping log! Pooping presents, no less! You can witness this hilarious tradition in action in various towns across Catalonia. [1]
Ukraine’s Christmas Spider
Hop on a virtual sleigh to Ukraine, where Christmas decorations take a unique twist. Forget about the traditional tinsel and baubles – in Ukraine, it’s all about the Christmas spider.
According to folklore, a poor family once found a Christmas tree spider that, in gratitude for their hospitality, spun its web around the tree, turning it into sparkling silver and gold.
Today, Ukrainians incorporate spider-themed ornaments into their Christmas decorations, symbolizing good luck and prosperity for the upcoming year. [2]
Japan’s KFC Christmas Feast
If you find yourself in Japan during the holiday season and craving a taste of Christmas, you might be surprised by the popularity of Kentucky Fried Chicken.
Yes, you read that right – KFC has become synonymous with Christmas in Japan. It all started with a successful marketing campaign in the ’70s, and now, ordering a KFC Christmas Bucket has become a festive tradition for many Japanese families.
And yes, I read this information, but I also had a Japanese lady I met – of over 50 – confirming it:)
If you’re in the Land of the Rising Sun during Christmas, you can join the locals in indulging in this unexpected…