A Look at Christmas Traditions from Around the World

Ukraine
A traditional Christmas dinner in the Ukraine has twelve courses. Apparently there is one course dedicated to each of Christ's apostles. Ukrainian Christmas traditions is a mixture of Christian and pagan beliefs. On Christmas Eve families begin their celebrations by sitting down to diner when the fist star appears in the sky. This star is thought to be the Star of Bethlehem.

The dinner table is dressed with two tablecloths. They represent the family members of the past and the present. It was once thought that the spirits of one's ancestors needed to be treated with respect, which would bring good fortune. Besides a second table cloth for family members who have passed on, the table is also set with one extra place for the souls of those who have died.

Underneath the table some hay is placed to represent Jesus being born in a manger. A special Christmas bread called kolach is made and given pride of place on the table's center.

The meal is begun when the father of the family dipps bread in honey that has been blessed at church and passes a piece to each family member. This is the start of a twelve-course meal that does not include any meat, but fish is served.

France
France has many similar Christmas traditions to the US such as holiday window displays, gifts and Christmas trees, but there are some differences. On Christmas Eve, after children have gone to sleep the Christmas tree has some extra goodies added to it that include toys, fruits and sweats. Also instead of stockings children leave their shoes by the fire for Santa to fill.

Christmas Eve is a late night for the entire family, except young children. The whole family will attend midnight mass, which consists of carols and bells. After mass the family will return home for a Christmas Eve dinner that is called 'le reveillon'. The food that is served varies from region to region.

Many areas of France will also hold Marches de Noel, which are Christmas markets. One of the best areas for these marks is the Alsace region in France's northeast, on the border of Germany.