Christmas seems to be centered on gift giving in the U.S., but other countries focus away from materialism. Some of the traditions are about community, collaboration, and creativity. The BBC is sharing a few of the rituals and they are:
- Iceland: Reading by candlelight after Christmas dinner. In Iceland, publishers release a flurry of new releases in the run-up to Christmas, a seasonal phenomenon known as "Christmas book flood". The tradition dates back to World War Two, when most goods were rationed except paper, making books the most practical Christmas gift. On 24 December, families exchange presents, eat Christmas dinner and then spend the evening reading their new books by candlelight, perhaps with a box of chocolates and a drink beside them.
- Japan: Spoiling your other half. As a largely non-Christian country, Japan celebrates Christmas in its own distinct way. Instead of a family-centered celebration, Christmas Eve plays out more like Valentine's Day…a romantic evening for couples. The wintery streets glow with Christmas lights, restaurants offer special menus and luxury hotels often book out.
- Australia: Playing cricket as a household. Christmas Day in Australia centers on sunshine, food and family. It's also a time to grab a tinny (a can of beer), a bat and some stumps, and indulge in a great Australian family tradition: the Christmas cricket match. Everyone is invited and all ages are welcome.
- Finland: Visiting the ancestors. Honoring deceased relatives is central to the Finnish Christmas. On Christmas Eve, families visit cemeteries to light candles for loved ones who have passed away. According to This Is Finland, three-quarters of Finnish households take part, transforming graveyards into serene landscapes of snow and flickering candlelight.
- Denmark: Making homemade decorations. A klippe klistre day, literally "cutting and sticking," is an essential Danish ritual. Homes, schools and workplaces across the country hold crafting sessions to make elaborate garlands, braided stars and paper hearts to bring Christmas cheer to classrooms, offices and living rooms. The idea is to create a feeling of cozy community.
- Venezuela: Getting your skates on. Christmas church services in Venezuela are joyful, communal and often lively, accompanied by bells, firecrackers and sometimes fireworks in the run-up to Christmas. But the most distinctive custom is how people often arrive: on roller skates. Families skate to dawn services including on Christmas Eve.
Source: BBC