How do people celebrate Christmas around the world? By M. Liaw

​We are all familiar with Christmas, with its traditional decorations, pine trees, snow (in the northern hemisphere), and colourful lights everywhere you go. Many countries, on the other hand, celebrate this magical holiday in distinct ways, from the beginning of December to the middle of January we can see several cultures starting their festivities.
 
Christmas in the United Kingdom:
The English celebrate Christmas with their families and friends on December 25th. The tradition of decorating the Christmas tree begins in mid-November, all family is invited and everyone contributes with ornaments, gifts, and of course the star on top. Carol services in the United Kingdom are extremely popular as they tour around town singing joyful songs to families in their homes or in church, which is also crowded on Christmas Day. Children in England believe that Santa Claus leaves gifts under pillows and stockings for the ‘good children’, as a result, children occasionally leave food and drinks, such as pies, for when Santa comes to visit them.
 
Christmas in China:
The Chinese aren’t as keen on our favourite holiday nonetheless, we can still see some trees in shopping malls or parks. In China, it is uncommon to put up a tree at home however, for those who do, plastic is the preferred material and it is decorated with paper ornaments such as chains and lanterns, and don't forget the golden star. In addition, they have an old tradition of giving apples on Christmas Eve as a symbol of a peaceful evening.
 
Christmas in Brazil:
Christmas is celebrated in Brazil during the summer, meaning, it isn’t snowy alike Hollywood movies. Most people go to the beach for Christmas and then to the city for New Year's, but city celebrations are also fascinating. Secret Santa is a common Christmas activity for Brazilians, involving the giving and receiving of gifts with friends rather than relatives. In Brazil, Christmas dinners consist mainly of ham, turkey, fruits, rice with raisins, and farofa which are served usually at either 10pm or 12am where everyone gets to say, “Merry Christmas!” to one another.
 
Christmas in USA:
Christmas in the United States is very similar to the holiday in Europe. They decorate gingerbread houses, make popcorn string for the tree, and drink lots and lots of Eggnog throughout the day. Carols are also being sung around towns, particularly in churches, and the city is lit by Christmas lights from every backyard. Children also leave food and drinks, such as cookies and milk, for Santa Claus to bring when he comes to visit and give out gifts.