Written By: Ella D. with Communications
All over the world, different cultures and countries have special celebrations taking place throughout the winter season. Read on to learn more about how these traditions can bring joy, light and warmth to the coldest time of year.
Hanukkah
Hanukkah is a Jewish celebration observed over eight days around December. On each night of Hanukkah, a candle is lit on a menorah and families may exchange gifts. Traditional food like latkes and dreidel games are also enjoyed! Learn more about this holiday with books about Hanukkah.
Christmas
December 25 is Christmas Day, a holiday with unique traditions and celebrations all over the globe. In the United States, Christmas can mean decorating a Christmas tree, hanging stockings and exchanging presents. In France, you might burn a yule log, and in Mexico, you can dig into yummy pozole and tamales! Enjoy some Christmas tales to learn more about different worldwide traditions.
Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is an African-American holiday dating back to 1966. Spanning from December 26 to January 1, Kwanzaa is an opportunity for Black people to celebrate their culture and reflect on their history. On each day of Kwanzaa, a black, red, or green candle is lit in observance of the following principles: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith. Learn more about the importance of Kwanzaa.
Winter Solstice
The Winter Solstice, also known as Yule, marks the official start of winter with the shortest day of sunlight all year. Winter solstice traditions can include cozying up by a warm fire, enjoying hot drinks and setting intentions for a new season. If you're not a fan of the dark, take comfort knowing that each day after the solstice will be a little bit brighter than the last. Stay cozy with these stories about the solstice.
Three Kings Day
Three Kings Day, also known as the Epiphany or Día de Los Reyes, is a January holiday celebrated in various cultures and religions around the world. With roots in Christianity, Three Kings Day celebrates the day the three kings brought gifts to baby Jesus. Traditions can include eating sweet treats like king cake, splashing water over people and houses as a symbol of rebirth and giving little gifts or surprises to children. Read more about Three Kings Day with these stories.
New Year's Day
January 1 is New Year's Day—signifying the official transition into a new Gregorian, or solar, calendar year. Many cultures have traditions that are said to bring prosperity into the new year. In Spain, it's customary to eat 12 grapes when the clocks strike midnight, and in Turkey, it's good luck to smash a pomegranate and eat the seeds! Check out these stories all about New Year's.
Lunar New Year
A major holiday among Asian cultures, Lunar New Year celebrates the beginning of a new lunar cycle. A different Chinese zodiac animal acts as a symbol of the new year, and in 2025, we welcome in the Year of the Snake! Dive into the rich culture and history of Lunar New Year.
Add a comment to: Winter Celebrations Around the World