The holidays are a perfect time to discover and celebrate the beautiful, rich traditions other cultures hold dear. Trying out different festive customs with your children is more than fun, it’s a way to build curiosity, respect, and connection to the world. Here are some inspiring global traditions, plus ideas for how you can adapt or bring them into your home for memorable, inclusive celebrations.
1. Santa Lucia’s Day – Scandinavian Light & Songs
In Sweden (and parts of Scandinavia), St. Lucia’s Day (December 13) is marked by processions of children singing songs of light. The oldest daughter (or a child chosen) dresses in white with a wreath of candles or lights on her head, visiting rooms with sweet buns (“lussekatter”) and treats. (Source: Better Homes & Gardens)
Try at home:
-
Have your own “Lucia procession” with kids dressed in white, using LED candles or fairy lights.
-
Bake saffron buns or special holiday bread.
-
Sing carols and share the story of St. Lucia (about bringing light into darkness) together.
2. Kwanzaa – Celebrating Heritage & Principles
Kwanzaa is a holiday that runs from December 26 to January 1. It celebrates African heritage, unity, and family through the Nguzo Saba (Seven Principles), lighting the kinara (candle holder), storytelling, music, and crafts. Kids often take part in lighting candles, placing symbolic items, and helping prepare special foods. (Source: Verywell Family)
Try at home:
-
Set up a small kinara and help kids light one candle each night, talking about one of the principles.
-
Make a special meal with flavors or dishes you love that connect to those principles.
-
Do crafts, storytelling, or community service (donations, helping neighbors) to reflect the values.
3. Christmas Traditions & Caroling in Slavic Regions: Koliada / Koleda
In many Eastern European and Slavic countries, there is a tradition called Koliada or Koleda, where children and adults walk house to house during the winter season singing carols, wishing well, and sometimes collecting small treats. It’s similar to caroling, but often more communal and festive. (Source: Wikipedia)
Try at home:
-
Teach your kids a carol or two from another language or region.
-
Make your own version of “going around the neighborhood” (or just around your block) and singing, with holiday lights or lanterns.
-
Share treats with neighbors or family members along the way.
4. Piñatas & Festive Breaks in Mexico & Latin America
In Mexico, piñatas are a cherished tradition—both for Christmas and other holidays. Breaking a piñata is fun and symbolic, with bright colors, candy, and family gathering. (Source: AP News)
Try at home:
-
Make or buy a piñata (even a small one) for your holiday gathering.
-
Fill with treats, but also small notes of kindness or blessings.
-
Let kids take turns, and make sure everyone has a role—hitting, spinning, collecting.
6. Santa Photos – A Magical U.S. Holiday Tradition
In the United States, getting your child’s photo taken with Santa is one of the most beloved holiday traditions. For many families, it marks the official start of the Christmas season. Kids dress in their holiday best (or festive PJs), wait in line full of nervous excitement, and share their wish lists with Santa, captured in a keepsake photo that’s treasured for years.
Try at home:
-
Book your Santa photo session early to avoid long waits or fully booked dates.
-
Make it a full experience! Get hot cocoa before or after, wear matching outfits, or invite grandparents to join.
-
Display each year’s photo in a special frame or album and watch your kids grow through the years of visits.
Pro Tip: Don’t wait till the week before Christmas! Reserve your Santa photo spot early to guarantee your ideal date and time!
Why Trying Traditions Matters
-
Cultivates cultural awareness & respect: Kids learn that there are many ways to celebrate and many stories behind the holidays.
-
Builds connection: Doing something together—you, your children, maybe extended family or friends—makes the moment more meaningful.
-
Creates fresh traditions: You can blend global customs with your own, making celebrations more inclusive and richer.
-
Makes holidays super memorable: Kids love new experiences—lights, songs, festive food, giving in new ways.
There’s a whole world of holiday traditions that bring light, kindness, creativity, and family joy. Introducing one or two into your own holiday season can make it even more special. Whether it’s lighting candles, singing songs in new languages, breaking a piñata, or sharing treats via Saint Nicholas, these traditions offer beauty and connection, especially through the eyes of your children.
