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10 Christmas Traditions Around the World



ZooLab animals come from around the world! Let's look at how other countries celebrate the Christmas season.


1) The Christmas Bram


Belizeans have their version of carolling! The Christmas Bram is when people spread Christmas cheer by going door to door, dancing and singing to Brokdong music.


2) Polaznik


Like Scotland's New Year's Day tradition of first footing, the first person to enter a Montenegrin's house on Christmas morning must be male. He is known as the polaznik and is symbolic of the three wise men; it is said that he brings luck and wealth into the home.


3) Dadabe Noely


In Madagascar, Santa Claus is called 'Dadabe Noely', which means Grandfather Christmas.


4) Nollaig na mBan


The 6th January in Ireland is Nollaig na mBan, Women's Christmas. Traditionally, on the this day men would take over the household duties to allow the women to see friends and relax as a thank you for all their hard work over the festive period.


5) Performing


Christmas in Tonga is much simpler, with a strong focus on spirituality. Instead of gift-giving, Tongans share their talents by getting together to perform.


6) Los Reyes Magos


In Spain, children aren't visited by Santa but by his helpers Los Reyes Magos (the three wise men). Three Kings Day is celebrated on the 6th of January, with the king leaving presents for good children to open in the morning.


7) KFC


KFC is the Christmas meal of choice in Japan. The BBC reports that 3.6 million Japanese families treat themselves to a KFC during the festive period.


8) Aguinaldo


In Brazil and Costa Rica it is the law for employees to receive a Christmas bonus.


9) 24 Hour Daylight


Scientists in Antarctica are treated to 24 hour of daylight in parts of the continent due to Christmas falling just after the Winter Solstice.


10) Akubra


Santa in Australia wears akubra hat, thong shoes and rides in a ute pulled by kangaroos.





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