Christmas traditions and rituals vary around the world. From the classic decorating of the tree to individual customs. But that doesn’t mean you can’t adopt a ritual that doesn’t quite fit into your traditional Christmas. Make Christmas your own this year, the way that suits you. And feel free to add one of the following rituals.

Searching for the Christmas tree

The art of choosing and decorating a tree is one of the oldest traditions, dating back to the 15th century. In the US alone, some 35 million Christmas trees find a new home each year. Bundle up and head to a tree farm to cut your own tree. You’ll walk through a variety of pine and spruce trees and choose the perfect one. It’ll smell great, be just the right size and perfect for you. You can end the tradition by having cocoa together.

The children will give the children

In Zambia, Christmas is a deeply religious holiday. And it’s certainly not about giving children as many new toys as possible. Quite the opposite. Families dress up in their best clothes and attend services where children are encouraged to bring gifts to share with less fortunate peers. The gifts are then distributed to children in hospitals and poor communities. Also try to encourage your children to give some of their toys to other less fortunate children.

━━ ( Source: martin-dm /  iStockphoto )

Santa’s Box

Probably all of us have written a letter to Santa or Santa Claus at some point. Did you know that each of them has a real address? In the case of Santa Claus, it is said to be the North Pole H0H 0H0 Canada. Interestingly, you can supposedly send a letter for free without a stamp. Of course, you can also write to Santa Claus. And even he can send a letter to your children. Make it a tradition. It really has a wonderful charm.

A cucumber on the tree

The first time I saw a cucumber-shaped Christmas ornament at my friend’s house, I was amazed. Now I know that in certain parts of the world it has a purpose. The cucumber-shaped ornament is hidden somewhere on the Christmas tree and whoever finds it gets an extra present or just a lot of luck. It’s not entirely clear where the ritual comes from, but I think anyone who likes it can adopt it.

Hang the mistletoe

This ritual, or tradition if you will, dates back to the 2nd or 3rd century. Not only did mistletoe supposedly ward off evil spirits and bring good vibes into homes, but it also symbolized affection and friendship. The Celts believed that mistletoe would bring love and fertility into the home. Therefore, they also observed the kissing custom. A man was allowed to kiss any woman passing under the mistletoe. Hang mistletoe over a table or door.

Christmas pudding

Pudding is a popular treat that belongs with Christmas. In Slovakia or Ukraine, it not only warms the heart, but is even said to be able to predict the future. The oldest male member of the family should take a spoonful of pudding from the lokš and throw it at the ceiling. The more pudding that stays on the ceiling, the luckier you will be the following year. Yes, it’s a bit of an odd ritual, but against taste…