Across the world Christmas traditions differ from one country to the next. Some are super cozy, while others are bizarre and sometimes frightening! Here we explore many of these traditions and discuss which ones we love most.

If you prefer video, watch the full episode 29 YouTube video version.

When a listener asked us to elaborate on our family's Christmas traditions, we took a step back and examined this question from a global standpoint.

Christmas is celebrated worldwide, and many cultures observe this holiday in their unique way.

From the German "pickle in the tree", to the poinsettia origin story from Mexico, we discuss some of the world's most interesting traditions, as well as a few of our own.

Cozy and Not-So-Cozy Christmas Traditions

Many of the world's traditions center around feelings of gratitude, love, family, and coziness, while others wander into darker realms.

In this episode, we discuss super cozy traditions like the Icelandic Jolabokaflod which takes place on Christmas Eve and involves exchanging books, chocolate, and special beer with loved ones followed by an evening of reading, drinking, and enjoying sweets.

On the other end of the spectrum, is the truly frightening legend of the Krampus, or the anti-Santa, who's known to wander the streets in search of badly behaved children.

We also try to answer the age-old question, "Is Die Hard a Christmas movie?".

While Tara and I may disagree on some things, we both concur that family traditions such as driving around to look at Christmas lights, our daughter Sam's hot cocoa bar, and baking cookies are at the top of our cozy list.

Resources

Snickerdoodle Cookie Recipe

Italian Almond Cookie Recipe

S Cookie Recipe

Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe

Prime Rib aka Standing Rib Roast Recipe

Horseradish Sauce Recipe

If you enjoyed the Christmas Traditions Episode, leave us a comment below and let us know!  

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