Holiday Traditions Around the World: Insights from Our International Team
Thanksgiving is behind us, Christmas is just around the corner, and our International Team has been hard at work curating some of the most exciting and unique holiday traditions from around the world.
From Italy’s festive feasts to Mexico’s magical Rosca de Reyes, exploring global holiday traditions feels especially fitting for a company like ours - one that helps businesses grow across states and borders!
Katie – Holiday Traditions in Italy: A Mix of Faith, Fun, and Family
My family is Italian, and I've always felt drawn to its roots! Italy's holiday traditions are as rich and diverse as its culture, blending deep Catholic roots with vibrant celebrations that unite families and communities. From early December through the New Year, Italy is alive with festivities that honor both the sacred and the joyous.
One of the most colorful and energetic celebrations is "Carnevale," Italy's version of Mardi Gras, which takes place from January through March. Unlike New Orleans, where parades dominate, Italy's Carnevale features streets filled with children in costumes, throwing confetti and celebrating the last indulgence before Lent. It's a playful and boisterous holiday with masks, sweets, and, of course, delicious food.
Easter is another major holiday in Italy, celebrated on both Easter Sunday ("Pasqua") and Easter Monday ("Pasquetta"). Families gather for festive meals, enjoying traditional treats like the "colomba" (a dove-shaped cake), "pane di pasqua" (a ring-shaped bread with colored eggs), and "uova al cioccolato" (large chocolate eggs filled with surprises). It's a time of renewal, both spiritually and socially, as Italians reconnect with family.
When Christmas rolls around, the celebrations begin early. On Christmas Eve, Italians often enjoy a "none" (big dinner), and then on "La Befana" (January 6th), children eagerly await the arrival of a good witch who delivers gifts reminiscent of the Three Wise Men. Naughty kids might find lumps of coal in their stockings, but for the well-behaved, sweet treats abound.
The Christmas season continues with "Santo Stefano" (St. Stephen's Day) on December 26th, a day for visiting loved ones or enjoying a quiet getaway after the hustle and bustle of the holidays. The sound of "zampognari" (bagpipe-playing shepherds) filling the streets adds a unique touch as these musicians bring Christmas carols to every corner of Italy.
Whether it's a feast, a visit from a magical witch, or the sound of bagpipes, Italy's holiday traditions are all about family, faith, and festive joy – my favs!
Darinka – Holiday Traditions in Mexico: A Mexican Tradition Full of Magic
In Mexico, Día de Reyes (Three Kings Day), celebrated every January 6th, is a magical holiday that fills the air with joy. Growing up, it was always one of the most exciting days of the year. The day honors the Three Wise Men—Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthazar—who traveled to Bethlehem to deliver their gifts to baby Jesus. This Catholic tradition is celebrated with special enthusiasm in Mexico, other Latin American countries, and Spain.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the holiday is how people dress up as the Three Kings. Kids often reenact this scene at school, donning crowns and robes as they pretend to deliver gifts. It's also common to see beautiful souvenirs and toys depicting the Three Kings, baby Jesus, Mary, and Joseph gathered together, surrounded by animals, to celebrate the birth. The images are truly heartwarming and vibrant—feel free to Google them! They capture the spirit of the day perfectly.
For kids, there's always a special surprise. On the night before, they leave out stockings for the Three Kings, who, if the children have been good, fill them with small gifts.
The day's centerpiece is the Rosca de Reyes, a sweet bread with a tiny plastic baby Jesus hidden inside. Whoever finds the figurine has to bring tamales for the family or cook a meal. It's a beautiful celebration of family, tradition, and the magic of giving.
Jessica – Holiday Traditions in Peru: Cheers from Peru's Unique Holidays!
As someone with Peruvian roots, I'm excited to share a couple of the country's special holiday traditions that are full of culture, flavor, and history! (and yummy cocktails)
First up is Independence Day, celebrated every July 28th. This marks the day Peru declared independence from Spain in 1821, and it's a big deal! The entire country comes together for parades, fireworks, and festive celebrations. Businesses close for the day, and many people continue the festivities into July 29th as well. It's a patriotic time filled with pride for the country's rich heritage.
Another holiday that's near and dear to my heart is Pisco Sour Day, celebrated on the first Saturday of February each year. This fun, food-filled day is all about Peru's national drink—the Pisco Sour. Locals gather in small get-togethers or events to enjoy the delicious cocktail, which is made from Pisco (a type of brandy), lime juice, egg whites, and bitters.And, of course, it's always paired with great food, like ceviche or anticuchos. It's a day to celebrate the unique flavors of Peru and enjoy good company!
Both of these traditions are a perfect blend of history, culture, and delicious Peruvian flavors. Cheers!
Cerolos – Holiday Traditions in Egypt: Easter, Eid, and Beyond
As someone from Egypt, I'm excited to share a peek into the colorful and lively holiday traditions that bring people together across the country, whether they're Christian or Muslim.
Easter in Egypt is a fun and festive time for both Christians and Muslims alike. On Easter morning, families get up early and begin with an ancient tradition: smashing onions. It's believed that this ritual, which dates back to the time of the ancient Egyptians, helps chase away bad spirits and bring in good luck for the year ahead.
After the onion-smashing, it's time for the egg game. Families color eggs and then play a game where they try to smash each other's eggs on their foreheads. It's a lot of fun (even if it's a little messy!) and adds to the festive spirit of the day.
Another tradition is eating salted fish—a delicacy that's been preserved for a year and is enjoyed despite its strong flavor.Some joke that you might end up in the hospital afterward, but it's all part of the fun! After Easter, Egyptians head to the beach to relax, enjoy the spring weather, and celebrate the season of renewal.
Eid el-Fitr and Eid el-Adha are also major holidays marked by prayers, feasts, and family gatherings. These are joyful times of celebration for Muslims, and the whole country shares in the happiness.
In Egypt, whether for Easter or Eid, holidays are all about family, food, and celebrating life's special moments together!
Carlo – Hanukkah Traditions: The Festival of Lights
Hanukkah, also known as the "Festival of Lights," is a joyous holiday celebrated by Jewish communities around the world, typically in December. It's a time to reflect on a remarkable story of resilience and hope. The holiday commemorates a time when the Jewish people were oppressed and their sacred temple was desecrated by enemies. After a successful revolt, they liberated themselves and rededicated their temple. The word "Hanukkah" itself means "dedication" in Hebrew, symbolizing this act of reclaiming and restoring what was lost.
One of the most beloved traditions of Hanukkah is the lighting of the menorah, a special candelabrum with nine branches. Each night, one more candle is lit until all eight candles are glowing on the final night. The middle candle, called the "shamash," is used to light the others. It's a beautiful way to mark the passage of each night and the growing light of the season.
And if you've ever wondered about the spinning top with the Hebrew letters, that's called the dreidel! It's a fun game that children (and adults!) play during Hanukkah, and it's a delightful part of the holiday tradition. You can learn how to play here: How to Play Dreidel.
Whether it's the lighting of the menorah, the joy of family gatherings, or the playful game of dreidel, Hanukkah is a celebration of light, freedom, and togetherness.
Vicky – Holiday Traditions in Germany: From Christmas Pickles to St. Nikolaus Day
As a German, I never fully appreciated the rich holiday traditions of my homeland until I married a fellow German. Now,I've embraced the celebrations, and I'm excited to share some fun and quirky customs from Germany that make the season so special.
Christmas in Germany is celebrated on both December 25th and 26th, with the second day known as Zweiter Weihnachtstag. But one of the most interesting traditions is the Christmas Pickle. A glass pickle ornament is secretly hidden in the Christmas tree, and after presents are opened, everyone races to find it. The lucky person who spots the pickle first might get an extra gift and is believed to receive good luck for the coming year. Some say the tradition began with a Civil War soldier who survived in prison by eating pickles, while others trace it back to the 1890s when American store Woolworth imported pickle ornaments from Germany and created the story to boost sales!
Advent Wreaths are also a big part of German tradition. Made with real pine, berries, and four candles, families light one candle every Sunday leading up to Christmas, creating a peaceful countdown to the holiday.
On December 6th, St. Nikolaus Day is celebrated. Children leave their shoes out in hopes of receiving small gifts or sweets if they've been good. However, those who've misbehaved might find coal from Krampus, a mischievous creature who punishes naughty kids!
And, of course, German Christmas Markets are world-famous, with their wooden stalls, twinkling lights, and delicious scents of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. They're the perfect place to soak in the Christmas spirit.
Germany's holiday traditions are a blend of fun, history, and warmth, making this time of year truly magical. Plus, beer!
Cari – Aussie Holiday Traditions: Celebrating Christmas and Boxing Day Down Under
If you're looking for a unique twist on holiday traditions, look no further than Australia! Christmas in Australia falls during the summer months, so it's a very different vibe from the cold and snowy holidays many are used to. Picture this: families celebrating with barbecues on the beach, grilling prawns, lamb, and steaks under the warm sun. And for dessert? A delicious Pavlova—a light, meringue-based treat topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, perfect for a sunny holiday.
One of the standout holidays in Australia is Boxing Day, celebrated on December 26th. Originally rooted in British history, Boxing Day was a time to give "Christmas boxes" to service workers as a token of appreciation. It dates back to the 16th century but has since evolved into a day of relaxation and fun. Today, it's all about sports, with major events like the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race and a huge cricket match. People also flock to the Boxing Day sales for some post-Christmas shopping!
And if you think Christmas feels a little too "traditional," fear not—Aussie Carols by Candlelight is a festive favorite, and you might even spot Santa surfing on the waves in his board shorts and sunglasses. It's a sunny, laid-back, and superfun way to celebrate the holidays!
Breanna – Holiday Traditions in Ireland - A Blend of Tradition and Warmth…Straight out of a Hallmark Film.
I've always loved Ireland—the people are so friendly, and the country's rich traditions make the holidays extra special. My husband and I had the chance to visit Ireland for our honeymoon, and we can't wait to return with our daughters one day! When it comes to Christmas, Ireland has a magical blend of Christian and pre-Christian customs that reflect its unique history and culture.
One charming Irish tradition is the Christmas walk. After Christmas dinner, many families take a leisurely stroll, not just to aid digestion, but to enjoy the beauty of nature. In rural Ireland, Christmas Day was one of the few days off from farm work, so walking through the countryside or along the coast became a cherished way to appreciate the day.
Another custom is the Christmas crib. Irish nativity scenes are a central part of the holiday, often featuring local animals and rural settings. A special tradition is that the baby Jesus isn't placed in the crib until Christmas Eve, symbolizing the anticipation of Christ's birth.
Candle in the window is another touching Irish custom, where a candle is left in the window on Christmas Eve. It symbolizes welcome to Mary and Joseph, and historically, during times of persecution, it also served as a silent sign of faith.
Whether it's the walks, cribs, or candles, Irish Christmas traditions are filled with warmth, reverence, and a deep connection to the country's past. Nollaig Shona Duit—Merry Christmas in Gaelic!
Suzette - Christmas in Japan: A Unique Blend of Tradition and Modern Celebration
Christmas in Japan is a fascinating blend of tradition, modern influence, and quirky customs that make it stand out from other countries' holiday celebrations. While Christmas was introduced to Japan as early as the 16th century with the arrival of Christianity, the way it's celebrated today is quite different from its religious roots. By the 20th century, Japan had adapted Christmas into a more secular and surprisingly romantic holiday—something akin to Valentine's Day.
In Japan, Christmas is a big day for couples rather than families. It's often celebrated with romantic dinners and special outings. One of the most interesting aspects of Japanese Christmas is the Christmas meal—and no, it's not turkey or ham. The most popular Christmas food in Japan is KFC! Many families and couples enjoy a bucket of fried chicken, a tradition that started back in the 1970s thanks to a successful KFC marketing campaign.
Another quintessential part of the Japanese Christmas celebration is the Christmas cake, or "kurisumasu keki." This delicious treat is a light sponge cake topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. It's as much a part of the season as tree lights and decorations.
And if you're in Japan during the holidays, you might also hear Beethoven's Ninth Symphony performed. This tradition dates back to WWI and has become a symbol of peace and joy during Christmas.
I can't wait to return to Japan and experience a Japanese Christmas once again!
Angelina - Holiday Traditions in Spain: Las Doce Uvas de la Suerte and More!
Growing up, I didn't practice many Spanish traditions, even though I have Spanish heritage. But as I've gotten older, I've come to really appreciate the fascinating customs of Spain, and I'm excited to share one of the most unique and fun traditions—Las Doce Uvas de la Suerte or "The 12 Grapes of Luck."
This tradition takes place on New Year's Eve. At midnight, as the clock strikes twelve, Spaniards eat one grape for each strike. That's twelve grapes in twelve seconds! Each grape represents a month of the upcoming year, and if you manage to eat them all before the final bell, you're promised good luck and prosperity in the year ahead. It sounds simple, but eating twelve grapes in twelve seconds is trickier than it seems—trust me, you'll likely end up with a mouthful of grapes by the end!
Puerta del Sol in Madrid is the iconic spot where thousands gather to eat their grapes and ring in the New Year, much like Times Square in New York. Families also celebrate with a Nochevieja dinner featuring elaborate feasts.
The tradition dates back to at least 1895, and in some parts of Spain, it was believed that the twelve grapes could also ward off evil spirits and witches. This year, I'm excited to incorporate this tradition into my own family's celebrations. Here's hoping those twelve grapes bring us all some good luck in 2025!
Rida - Celebrating Holiday Traditions in Pakistan: A Vibrant Tapestry of Culture and Community
As a proud Pakistani, one of my favorite ways to celebrate our culture is through the rich holiday traditions we hold dear. From the joyous prayers of Eid-ul-Fitr to the lively kite-flying of Basant, Pakistan’s festive spirit is truly special and deeply rooted in our diverse heritage. These traditions are more than just celebrations—they are an expression of our values: family, faith, and community.
Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan with a spirit of charity and togetherness. Families gather for prayers, wear new clothes, and share meals, including the beloved sheer khurma. It’s also a time for zakat-ul-fitr, a charity given to ensure that everyone can join in the celebrations, no matter their circumstances.
Then comes Eid-ul-Adha, where the tradition of Qurbani (animal sacrifice) takes center stage. The meat is distributed among family, neighbors, and those in need, symbolizing compassion and generosity.
Another beloved celebration is Basant, the vibrant kite-flying festival that marks the arrival of spring. In cities like Lahore, rooftops are filled with colorful kites, and the air is alive with energy and music.
For the Christian community, Christmas brings families together for church services, carols, and festive feasts, adding to the diverse cultural tapestry of Pakistan.
These holidays reflect the beauty of Pakistan’s cultural diversity, highlighting our shared values of love, unity, and generosity. It’s this spirit that makes celebrating the holidays in Pakistan so magical.
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