Christmas is widely celebrated throughout the United States, but most people do not think about how other countries celebrate this popular holiday. Around the world, this popular holiday is celebrated very differently.

During December, Argentina is very warm, so some families put cotton balls on their Christmas trees to represent snow. Many houses are decorated with wreaths and flowers in colors like green, red, and gold very similarly to the United States. Argentinians also have some large celebrations at midnight on Christmas Eve. Fireworks can be heard throughout the whole country.

Although Argentina is very similar to the United States, there are places all around the world that celebrate in a very different way. In Belgium, some kids believe that on Dec. 6 Saint Nicholas brings them many different gifts. This celebration is called St. Nicholas’ Day. Instead of Santa Claus, “Sinterklaas” visits with his assistant Zwarte Piet (Black Peter) and gives the children presents. This holiday is somewhat similar to our Christmas on Dec. 25, but they celebrate actual Christmas on Dec. 25 without things like Santa and presents.  

Another place where the weather is still hot during Christmas is Costa Rica. Christmas comes right after school ends, so it is a big celebration. Due to the heat, most people hang tropical flowers around their houses instead of wreaths. They also have many festivities including: fiestas, bull runs, dance festivals, and even street parties.

Australia celebrates Christmas very similarly to us with lights, trees, wreaths and many other decorations. In Australia, kids believe Santa uses kangaroos so his reindeer can have a break, and he changes his big robe for some cooler clothes. Australians usually have their main meal during lunch, and have a much more laid back dinner like barbeques.

In Japan, most people think of Christmas not as a religious holiday, but more of a way to spread happiness because Japan just recently started celebrating the holiday. Fried chicken is the most commonly eaten dinner throughout the country on Christmas night. It is not seen as a religious holiday so, schools are still open and most adults go to work on December 25th.

Egypt is almost the exact opposite from the United States when celebrating. Only 15% of people celebrate Christmas in Egypt. Christmas day is most commonly celebrated on January 7th and not December 25th. From November 25th to January 6th some Christians fast by eating just a vegan diet. Although Christmas is different all around the world it is a time where people can come together and spread happiness.