In a recent interview, Konstantinos Sinanis, the Mayor of Agios Efstratios, shared insights on the island’s Christmas customs and the close-knit community of approximately 100 residents. Although adverse weather conditions prevent outdoor activities, he humorously noted the winds. During New…
In the town of Trebgast, Bavaria, a group of bachelors uphold an ancient tradition by parading the straw bear named ‘Strohberta’ on Christmas Eve. This festive custom is thought to ensure prosperity for the coming year as the participants, dressed…
As Christmas Eve approaches in Greece, households prepare ‘Christopsomo’, a traditional holiday bread. Made by a local bakery in Rapsani, this bread is decorated with a walnut symbolizing Christ and abundance. Each family member receives a piece on Christmas Day…
In IJsselstein, Michel Mulder has proudly displayed a two-meter high replica of the region’s famed ‘greatest Christmas tree’ in his front yard. This festive tradition has inspired many locals to create their own versions, ranging from puzzles to large replicas….
The most famous Christmas custom in Western Macedonia, the Bonfires of Florina, attracts visitors from across Greece. At midnight, bonfires will be lit in neighbourhoods throughout the city, with the largest in Heroon Square. This ancient tradition, rooted in pagan…
This article explores diverse Christmas traditions around the world, as narrated by SRF correspondents. In Uganda, families unite for a festive meal of chicken and matoke, emphasizing family ties. Chileans celebrate at the beach with barbecues, while in China, Christmas…
Christmas celebrations vary greatly across the globe, featuring unique and bizarre traditions. In Venezuela, attendees glide to church on rollerblades, while in Ireland, locals brave icy waters for a festive swim. Norwegians and Estonians hide their brooms to thwart witches,…
In Ioannina, Greece, the Christmas tradition of ‘Spargana tou Christou’ is being honored with music and community involvement. Andromahi Thomou, a 91-year-old resident, recalls how this custom was revived 18 years ago, symbolizing the swaddling clothes of Christ. Nicos Nousias,…
The ancient Greek custom of Eiresionis, condemned as pagan by the Byzantine theocratic regime, has been revived in recent years in New Kio, Greece. Locals decorate trees with white and red ribbons while singing carols. The tradition, which traveled through…
The Multicultural Christmas Nativity Festival, themed ‘Peace on Earth’, is being held at the Cultural Center of Chania in collaboration with the Region of Crete. This event showcases Christmas customs and traditions from around the world, aiming to unite the…
On December 6th, the memory of Saint Nicholas, the protector of sailors and the Greek Navy, is honored. Born in the 3rd century, Saint Nicholas was known for his philanthropy and miraculous deeds. He used his wealth to aid the…
In Germany, special Christmas post offices open to receive children’s letters to the Christkind and Santa Claus. With over 60,000 letters already sent from more than 50 countries, these post offices are brimming with holiday spirit. Popular addresses include Himmelpfort…
