Unforgettable Winter Break: Christmas Celebrations Around the World You Must Experience
- Gladys Franco
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
At FALA, Christmas is a time of joy, celebration, and unique traditions that vary from one country to another. We embrace these diverse celebrations, allowing our campers to discover and appreciate the joy and warmth of Christmas around the world during our winter camp in Jacksonville and surrounding areas.
Now, we will uncover some of the most colorful and heartwarming Christmas celebrations, focusing on Colombia, the Philippines, Australia, and Mexico. Each country has its own special way to celebrate the holiday season, enriched by its cultural heritage and festive spirit.
A Festive Glow in Colombia - Fun and Family
In Colombia, Christmas starts on December 7th with "Día de las Velitas," when families light candles to honor the Virgin Mary, marking the beginning of the "Novena de Aguinaldos," a nine-day tradition of prayers, songs, and food leading to Christmas Eve.
On Christmas Eve, families in Colombia prepare a grand feast featuring traditional dishes like "buñuelos" and "natilla," accompanied by laughter, opening gifts, music, and fireworks. About 80% of Colombians celebrate Christmas, underscoring its cultural importance.
Spirit of Community in the Philippines
The Philippines' Christmas season starts in September, featuring "Simbang Gabi," nine dawn masses before Christmas that unite families and reflect deep-rooted faith. During this period, locals enjoy delicacies like "puto bumbong" and "bibingka."
On Christmas Eve, nearly 70% of Filipino families celebrate "Noche Buena" with a festive meal featuring lechon and sides, emphasizing togetherness through shared stories, gift exchanges, and cherished memories.
A Summer Celebration in Australia
In Australia, Christmas falls in summer, blending traditional and outdoor celebrations. Many Australians enjoy barbecues at the beach or backyard gatherings, featuring seafood and mangoes. About 60% celebrate outdoors with games and sun-filled activities.
"Carols by Candlelight," held on Christmas Eve, gathers thousands in parks to sing under the stars, embodying community spirit. Stunning Christmas lights decorate homes and public spaces, creating a magical atmosphere enjoyed continent-wide.
A Vibrant Blend in Mexico
Mexico's Christmas celebrations blend indigenous and Spanish traditions. The "Posadas," a nine-night event, reenacts Mary and Joseph's search for shelter, with families gathering to sing carols and enjoy traditional foods like "tamales" and "ponche," strengthening community bonds.
On Christmas Eve, families enjoy a grand "Nochebuena" dinner with roasted turkey or "bacalao." The festivities culminate on January 6th with "Día de Reyes," when children receive gifts and eat "Rosca de Reyes," celebrating the spirit of giving.
Celebrations That Unite Us
Christmas festivities around the world highlight a remarkable blend of cultural diversity and collective happiness! Imagine Colombia's charming candlelit streets, the vibrant holiday masses in the Philippines, sunny barbecues sizzling in Australia, and the vibrant Posadas illuminating Mexico.
The FALA Winter Camp in Jacksonville, FL, is an exciting opportunity for participants to engage in a variety of activities while celebrating the holiday season. Join us in celebrating the spirit of Christmas through diverse traditions and shared joy.
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