Christmas is just around the corner! Every year on December 25th, children eagerly anticipate the joy of receiving gifts from Santa Claus. However, before opening presents, parents can introduce children to the origins, traditions, and unique celebratory methods of Christmas around the world. This will allow children to gain a deeper understanding of Christmas and make this day even more meaningful.
"Christmas" is composed of "Christ" and "mass," signifying the birth of the savior. This day represents a beautiful time for family gatherings and celebrations, and it is a major holiday in Western countries. Here's a fun fact: the abbreviation "X'mas" in "Christmas" comes from the Greek letter "Ch," representing Christ.
The familiar image of Santa Claus descending from the sky on a reindeer sleigh to deliver gifts to children worldwide. However, the Santa Claus story originates from Turkey in Central Europe, not the snowy lands of Finland! The prototype of Santa Claus was St. Nicholas, a Christian bishop who, in the 4th century, would drop gold coins down chimneys into the stockings of poor families, helping those in need. This is the origin of the familiar image of Santa Claus delivering gifts down the chimney.
How can Christmas be complete without a beautiful Christmas tree? The real Christmas tree symbolizes the enduring nature of life, and the star atop the tree represents the Star of Bethlehem that guided the way to Jesus' birth. Christmas trees adorned with ribbons, lights, and toys add to the festive atmosphere of the home. Christmas wreaths are crafted from evergreen plants like holly and mistletoe, with poinsettias adding a festive red touch to the wreaths. Today, plastic Christmas decorations are increasingly replacing traditional plants, yet they still bring joy.
The centerpiece of Christmas dinner is, without a doubt, a delicious spread of food. Roasted turkey is a Christmas dinner staple in the West, while in France, a "yule log cake" celebrates the holiday, and Germans favor traditional gingerbread cookies. Christmas dining traditions vary across the globe, but all embody a sense of warmth, unity, and cheer.
Five Countries' Unique Christmas Celebrations, All in One!
Each country celebrates Christmas with its unique characteristics, allowing children to explore these distinctive customs.
UK: During Christmas, British people enjoy Christmas crackers, which contain small toys and jokes, adding to the fun of the holiday. Christmas pantomimes are another British Christmas tradition, featuring humorous plays that bring joy to the entire family.
Czech Republic: Czechs use apples and molten lead to predict the coming year's fortune. Seeing a core in an apple symbolizes good luck; pouring molten lead into water and observing the shape is used for divination. These customs add a mystical touch to Christmas.
Christmas originally emerged as a holiday for Christians to commemorate the birth of Jesus. Christians around the world usually hold a special worship service on this day. (Image/Provided by Heho)
Germany: In Germany, children make gifts for their parents, reversing the usual gift-giving tradition to add a touch of warmth to Christmas. They also share dinner with their families on Christmas Day and visit relatives the following day, similar to the Chinese tradition of New Year's visits.
Philippines: The longest Christmas season in the world is in the Philippines, beginning on December 16th with midnight masses followed by Christmas feasts. Children can even ask priests for gifts, making it a unique Christmas experience.
Australia: In Australia, which is located in the Southern Hemisphere, Christmas falls in the summer. Santa Claus, in his red suit, enjoys surfing on the beach and attending barbeques, providing a uniquely different festive atmosphere.
Although Christmas in Taiwan isn't as steeped in tradition as in Western countries, it is filled with warmth and cheer. Parents can take their children to local Christmas markets, admire beautifully decorated Christmas trees, or prepare a delicious Christmas dinner. Learning about the origins of Christmas and the celebration methods in different parts of the world will make Christmas more than just a time for receiving gifts; it will be a moment to cherish time with family.
