Christmas around the world – traditions that connect us
At a client's Christmas do last year, a few of us were shocked when we found out that they don’t have Christmas crackers in Germany! At The PR Network, we’re proud to work with associate partners from all over the globe and fully appreciate the huge variations of culture and celebrations across our network, but still, wow…
Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash
And this got us thinking; what other festive assumptions are we making and - more importantly - what other Christmas celebrations are we blissfully unaware of. So, who better to ask than our network itself. From parades in Spain to sauna rituals in Finland, here’s how some of our team celebrate the festive season.
Spain – the celebration of the three kings
In Spain, the festive season extends beyond Christmas Day, with los reyes magos (the three kings) taking place on 6th January. This is the main gift-giving day, with children leaving their shoes out the night before to be filled with presents.
Parades known as cabalgatas mark the occasion, and families gather to share roscón de reyes, a ring-shaped cake with hidden surprises – a figurine and a bean. The finder of the figurine is ‘king’ for the day, while the bean’s recipient is said to be less fortunate.
France – nativity scenes and sweet traditions
In Provence, Christmas has a strong focus on craftsmanship and tradition. The crèche (nativity scene) is a central feature, decorated with santons, terracotta figurines depicting not just the Holy Family but also everyday characters from Provençal village life.
Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash
Another tradition is les 13 desserts, representing Jesus and his apostles. This selection of dried fruits, nuts, and sweet treats is enjoyed after the réveillon (Christmas Eve dinner) and is a firm favourite in households across the region.
Germany – light and simplicity
In Germany, the festive season is lit by schwibbögen, arched candleholders placed in windows. These lights, which originate from the mining regions of Saxony, create a warm and welcoming glow during the dark winter evenings.
Christmas Eve dinner is often understated, with potato salad and Vienna sausages on the menu. The focus is on spending time together rather than elaborate feasting.
Finland – the Christmas sauna
In Finland, Christmas Eve is a time for peace and reflection, with the Christmas sauna at its heart. Heated in the evening, the sauna is a place for quiet and calm, often enhanced by candlelight.
Photo by Glib Albovsky on Unsplash
This tradition has its roots in folklore, where sauna gnomes were said to visit after dark. While the folklore has faded, the sauna remains an important part of Christmas for many Finnish families.
Dubai – markets and winter fun
Although Christmas isn’t a traditional celebration in Dubai, the city’s international community has embraced the season. Outdoor Christmas markets, such as the Madinat Al Jumeirah market, offer festive shopping and entertainment, while venues like Ski Dubai provide a snowy escape in the middle of the desert.
The mix of outdoor and indoor celebrations reflects Dubai’s unique ability to bring people together, no matter where they’re from.
Christmas is celebrated in so many different ways, but the themes of connection, warmth, and community are universal.
From all of us at The PR Network, we wish you a very happy Christmas and a wonderful start to the new year.