How Do People Around the World Celebrate the Christmas Season?
This week’s big Question Quest is a festive one:
❓How do people around the world celebrate the Christmas season?
Every country, and honestly, every family, has its own way of marking this time of year. Some light candles, some decorate trees, some eat gingerbread, some eat fish, and some eat KFC (yes, really!). Some celebrate on the 24th, some on the 25th, some for 12 days, and some not at all.
So let’s explore it, the Knowmads way...
🛠️ M – MAKE: Try a Christmas Tradition From Another Country
Invite your young Knowmads to choose one country this week and try a little tradition from there. Nothing complicated, just something small and joyful.
Here are three easy ideas to get them inspired:
• Germany: Bake gingerbread or make simple paper stars for the window.
• Sweden: Create a paper St. Lucia “candle crown” and learn why it’s celebrated.
• Spain: Try a gentle, kind little trick inspired by “Santos Inocentes” (a bit like April Fools’ Day).
And if you’d like more ready-made ideas, you’ll find 24 countries + activities inside myChristmas Around the World printable pack:
This is such a fun way to blend geography, history, science, food, culture and creativity, all through curiosity-led exploration.
💬 A – ASK: Where Do Christmas Symbols and Traditions Come From?
This season is full of various symbols and traditions, and every single one has a story. Here are a few wonderings to explore together:
Why do different countries celebrate in different ways?
What symbols do we see again and again, and why?
Which traditions feel ancient, and which ones seem more modern?
How do food, stories, and decorations reflect a country’s climate, history, or beliefs?
Which traditions feel meaningful to your family? Would you like to add or change any?
The stories behind the Christmas symbols and traditions often surprise kids and adults alike, so just have fun following your curiosity.
🧭Explore further:
🎥 Watch: What are the symbols for Christmas? by Twinkl
📚Read: Christmas Traditions Around the World
🌍 Visit: a local Christmas markets or winter fair, and look for foods, crafts and decorations from different cultures
💛 P – PAUSE: You're Allowed to Choose Traditions That Fit You
One thing you notice when you look at celebrations around the world is this:
There is no “correct” way to celebrate this season.
There is only what makes sense to the people living it.
And that means you’re allowed to shape this time of year in a way that feels good foryouandyourfamily.
You can keep the traditions that bring joy.
You can gently let go of the ones that feel heavy or stressful.
You can simplify. You can add something tiny and lovely.
You can choose what helps your home feel calm, connected, and warm.
So this week, ask yourself:
✨ Which traditions actually make us happy?
✨ Which ones can we soften or skip?
✨ What tiny, cosy thing could we add this year just for us?
Your kids don’t need “perfect”.
They need presence, warmth, laughter, and you, just as you are.
That’s more than enough!
Big hugs,
Anna xx
