A festive world tour
Christmas Around the World
Traditions, food and customs from countries that celebrate Christmas, told warmly and told well.
Christmas is observed in most of the world on December 25. The way it is celebrated differs widely, from quiet family meals in Austria to neighbourhood light displays in the United States and date nights in Japan.
Christmas in Germany
Christmas in Germany is a season-long celebration that centres on Heiligabend (Christmas Eve), open-air Christmas markets and the four Sundays of Advent.
Christmas in Austria
Austria celebrates a quiet, family-focused Christmas. Cities and alpine villages alike fill with Adventmärkte, brass music and the scent of roasted chestnuts.
Christmas in Slovenia
Slovenia blends Alpine, Mediterranean and Slavic Christmas customs into a long festive season that runs from early December through Epiphany on January 6.
Christmas in United Kingdom
Christmas in the United Kingdom is centred on Christmas Day at home with family, followed by Boxing Day on December 26.
Christmas in United States
Christmas in the United States blends traditions from many cultures. The season usually begins the day after Thanksgiving and ends on New Year's Day.
Christmas in Japan
In Japan Christmas is a popular but secular celebration. It is widely seen as a romantic and family-friendly evening rather than a religious holiday.