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The festive season is here and with it comes a mixture of religious rituals and customs from across the globe. While Christmas carols and gift-giving may be familiar, many cultures boast unique traditions that celebrate the end of one year and the hope for the next.
From fiery Yule logs in Norway to mischievous Krampus (or Christmas demons) in Austria, each custom from around the world offers a unique window into the cultures and beliefs that people hold dear in those countries.
City Press dives into the weird, wonderful and sometimes bizarre holiday traditions that add a dash of the unexpected to this joyous time of year.
Here are the seven unique holiday traditions from around the world:
1. Nochebuena in Mexico (Christmas Eve)
Have you ever wondered how Christmas is celebrated in Mexico? In the south American country, people celebrate Nochebuena, which literally translates to "good night" in Spanish.
According to National Geographic, this is a Christmas Eve celebration observed primarily in Spain, Latin America and the Philippines. Nochebuena is a time for families and friends to gather and enjoy a traditional feast. Midnight mass is a popular tradition, allowing people to celebrate Jesus' birth. Nativity scenes are often set up in homes and public spaces.
2. Krampuslauf in Austria
According to Austria.info, Krampuslauf, literally translating to "Krampus run" in German, is a unique and fascinating Austrian tradition that takes place during the Advent season, leading up to Christmas.
It involves young men dressed as Krampus, a fearsome, horned creature based on Alpine folklore, who roam the streets, interacting with the onlookers in a variety of ways.
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Krampuslauf often takes the form of parades or processions through town squares and the streets. The Krampus participants may run, jump, chase and playfully frighten onlookers, especially children who have misbehaved throughout the year.
3. Burning Yule Logs in Norway
According to Visit Norway, during the Burning Yule Logs families gather around a bonfire or fireplace, burning a large yule log for good luck and prosperity in the new year. This tradition symbolises purification and renewal as the old year burns away.
The tradition also connects the present to the past. Using embers from the previous year's log signifies a link to ancestors and generations past, keeping their stories and traditions alive.
4. Hanukkah in Jewish communities worldwide
According to My JewishLearning, Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the victory of the Maccabees over EmpiretheSeleucid and the subsequent rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in the 2nd century BCE.
Celebrated by Jewish communities worldwide, Hanukkah is a vibrant and joyous occasion filled with traditions, rituals, and delicious food. Each night of the eight-day holiday, a special nine-branched candelabrum called a menorah is lit. One additional candle is added each night, symbolising the growing miracle of the oil that lasted eight days.
5. Las Posadas in Mexico and Latin America
According to National Geographic, Las Posadas is a nine-day religious and cultural celebration observed in Mexico and much of Latin America, culminating on Christmas Eve (24 December). It commemorates the journey of Mary and Joseph seeking shelter before the birth of Jesus.
Las Posadas celebrates community, hospitality and the anticipation of Christmas.
6. Boxing Day in Commonwealth countries
Boxing Day, celebrated on 26 December in Commonwealth countries such as South Africa, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the UK, is a day of post-Christmas relaxation, sporting events and enjoying leftover Christmas feast.
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After the festive frenzy of Christmas, Boxing Day offers a well-deserved break. People sleep in, catch up with family and friends and enjoy leisurely activities such as board games, movies, or walks in the park.
7. Festa del Santo Bambino in the Philippines
According to National Geographic, the Festa del Santo Bambino, or Feast of the Holy Child Jesus, is a vibrant and deeply religious celebration held annually in the Philippines on the third Sunday of January. It focuses on a revered statue of the Christ child known as the Santo Bambino, believed to possess miraculous powers.
The heart of the celebration is a grand procession featuring the Santo Bambino, carried on a richly adorned carriage. Devotees follow the procession, singing hymns, praying and expressing gratitude for blessings received.
