Here Is How Christmas Is Celebrated Around The World

Is Christmas all about snow, stockings and sleighs? The more we look around, the more vivid are the ways in which Christmas is celebrated.

For years, December 25 has always been associated with the beliefs and customs followed in North America (USA to be more specific) and Europe. But little do we know about the customs followed in the nations located south of the equator.

Let's explore the festivities in different parts of the world, especially in the Southern Hemisphere.

Christmas in South America

South America celebrates Christmas during the summers.  Apart from decorating the Christmas tree (which could be any tree, not necessarily a fir tree), Argentinians also have a unique Christmas Eve tradition called 'globos.' These are paper decorations with lights inside that are meant to float in the sky.

Brazil believes in enjoying the festivities at the beach. The game 'Secret Santa' is also popular among Brazilians during this time of the year.

Chileans sip on the ever popular Christmas drink called 'Cola de Mono' a.k.a the Monkey's tail. This is a mixture of coffee, milk, liquor, cinnamon and sugar.

All the way to Africa

The festivities experience a whole new dimension in several parts of Africa. South Africa, for instance, witnesses families and friends planning camps and other fun holidays in the open.  You are bound to treat yourself to the traditional Christmas dessert called the Malva Pudding.

Zambia follows an interesting tradition that encourages children to bring a present to the church for children who are admitted in the hospital or for those who aren't able to afford presents.

Zimbabweans not only decorate their houses with the traditional 'European' Christmas tree, but also with plants like Ivy.

Santa Claus in Kenya is often seen patrolling the streets in a land-rover, camel or a motorbike!

Jamaica's grand market is a sight worth looking forward to during the Christmas season.

Madagascar experiences a rather warm Christmas. Could you guess what would be the most exciting dish for Christmas in this part of the world? Lychees!

Merry Christmas in South-East Asia

South-East Asia also follows a unique set of traditions as part of the Christmas festivities. The people of Philippines, for instance, make 'parol' - a bamboo pole or frame with a lighted star lantern on it. This is typically made out of bamboo strips and colored Japanese paper or cellophane paper.

Indonesians resort to other alternatives if they are unable to source the 'traditional' Christmas tree. Artificial or plastic Christmas trees are quite common. You could even spot Christmas trees made out of chicken feathers!

Christmas in India

India is a home to a few interesting Christmas traditions. You are bound to see families decorating a mango tree or even a banana plantain instead of the 'pine' Christmas tree. A few tribal groups in North-West India go to the surrounding villages singing Christmas carols and telling them the story of Christmas. In Kerala, a few Christians follow the  'Christmas fast' during which they do not consume certain food items, especially non-vegetarian food.

Christmas in New Zealand and Australia

Santa Parades rule the streets of New Zealand during Christmas. The Kiwis also take pride in their own Christmas tree called the Pohutukawa.

Australians on the other hand decorate their houses with the 'Christmas bush.' This is an Australian tree with tiny green leaves cream flowers. During the Christmas week, these flowers turn red.

Santa Claus believes in doing things differently in 'Aussie' land. He gives his reindeer a rest and uses kangaroos. He also decides to adorn more 'comfortable' clothing.

Bondi beach is a popular spot during Christmas.