Christmas is that time of year of festive parties and gift shopping, but what makes it so memorable are the traditions and myths that follow it. Alivia Wisniowicz, someone who also greatly enjoys Christmas, thinks these traditions are special for her own reasons.

“It’s fun, it’s a nice thing to do,” Alivia says. “You usually don’t hang out with your family as often as you should. I’m usually sitting in my room but during Christmas I’m with my family.”

 Traditions help make Christmas feel cheerful and have been for a long time.  Some customs, like decorating the Christmas tree, have been dated back to the 19th century or even beyond that. They have also powerfully impacted how most Americans celebrate Christmas. In modern-day America, you can see families and friends ice skating, participating in Secret Santa, watching Christmas movies, caroling, decorating, sledding, and so much more during the holidays. These are not the only traditions that are practiced. Many countries across the world enjoy Christmas in various ways. Some are different from how America celebrates, others not so much, but all of them share some form of backstory or meaning. 

One of the most beloved Christmas myths that have helped shape modern-day Christmas is Santa Claus. His story originates from a Turkish monk named St. Nicolas. He would go around helping those who were in need by giving them gifts. His story eventually made its way to America at the end of the 18th century through the Dutch. From there, the name Santa Claus grew throughout the country, thus sparking the Christmas myth of Santa Claus. A mysterious figure who gives presents to children who behave. 

There is another person who is a prominent figure during Christmas. The figure is known as Krampus, a half man half goat being. Krampus is a myth that originates in Austria. He is known for dragging naughty children into the depths of hell in sacks. This of course strikes fear and terror in many children to be on their best behavior. Yet this doesn’t stop the people of Austria from celebrating Christmas by hosting a Krampus Parade. There, many people are seen wearing frightening masks with horns to depict Krampus, and is often seen as a fun event for many.

Many places in America often put enormous decorated Christmas trees on display, but they are not the only things that are decorated for the holidays. On Christmas Eve in San Fernando, Philippines, the people of the city participate in a contest. There, they all construct magnificent lanterns. All are then embroidered with beautiful intricate designs and lights. 

America sees Christmas as a time of joy and glee, but many countries often link the holidays with superstition. One of which is Norway. The people of Norway hide brooms around their homes on Christmas Eve. Due to the broom being associated with witches, hiding away the brooms then fends evil spirits away.

Food is one of the many ways to bring people together. In America, we see people eating cookies and pies. However, in Japan they celebrate the season with something different. They instead feast on KFC. Even though Christmas is not a widely celebrated holiday in Japan, that does not stop people from gathering together to enjoy each other’s presence.

Many other countries also celebrate with food. South Africa celebrates by eating a fried caterpillar known as the Pine Tree Emperor Moth. The caterpillar is known for its bright, beautiful colors. In South Africa it is believed that if you were to eat it, good luck will be brought to you on New Years.  

Church is another way for people to celebrate Christmas. In Caracas, Venezuela, they do so by rollerblading into the churches. It is considered a tradition that is enjoyed by many. Since so many people participate, the city takes many precautions to ensure the night is festive. 

People enjoy receiving gifts, especially when they receive an extra one. In Germany, they hide a pickle in a tree, and whoever finds it, will be given another present. 

But it is not just about the fun events and extra presents that follow Christmas, but rather the feelings and times spent with those you love. Shayla Norton, a person who enjoys Christmas with her relatives, values their family traditions. They give an insight into why these traditions are so significant. Traditions help bring those who often do not spend time with families or others a moment to really value each other as people. 

“The overall cozy family atmosphere that it has. Everyone is  together while it is all warm and cozy.” Shayla says, “It is relieving after going through stress.”

No matter how people celebrate Christmas or their holidays, they will always be with those they love the most.