Stop 6 · Questions on the road
Seasonal Curiosities Explained
The questions readers send us most often, answered as plainly as we can.
Why do some countries celebrate Christmas on 7 January?
Churches that follow the Julian calendar, including the Ethiopian Orthodox and Coptic churches and the Russian Orthodox Church, keep 25 December on their own calendar. That date currently falls on 7 January in the Gregorian calendar most of the world uses. Some Orthodox churches, such as those of Greece and Romania, use a revised calendar and celebrate on 25 December.
What are the Twelve Days of Christmas?
They run from Christmas Day to 5 January, called Twelfth Night. Epiphany on 6 January marks the visit of the Magi. In the UK many households take decorations down by Twelfth Night.
Who brings gifts in different countries?
Sinterklaas in the Netherlands and Belgium, the Christkind in parts of Germany, Austria and Switzerland, La Befana in Italy, the Three Kings in Spain and much of Latin America, Joulupukki in Finland, the Yule Lads in Iceland and Father Christmas or Santa Claus in many English-speaking countries.
When does Advent start?
In Western churches Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, which always falls between 27 November and 3 December. Advent calendars, however, usually start on 1 December.
Why is St Lucia celebrated with candles?
Under the old Julian calendar, 13 December fell near the longest night of the year. A feast of light at the darkest point of winter took root across Scandinavia, especially in Sweden.
What does the piñata symbolise?
In Mexican Christmas tradition, the seven points are often explained as the seven deadly sins. Breaking the piñata blindfolded represents faith overcoming temptation, and the falling sweets are the reward.
Why do people in Japan eat KFC at Christmas?
A 1974 KFC campaign filled a gap: Japan had no established Christmas meal. Fried chicken became a popular Christmas Eve choice, often ordered weeks in advance, alongside a strawberry Christmas cake.
What is Boxing Day?
Boxing Day is 26 December, a public holiday in the UK and several Commonwealth countries. Its name is usually linked to boxes of gifts or money given to servants and tradespeople. Today it is known for sport, walks and, in Australia, the start of the Sydney to Hobart race.
How can families try another culture's traditions respectfully?
Learn the story first and share it with children. Keep the custom's original name, use recipes from people within that culture, and treat religious elements such as masses, nativity processions or prayers with care rather than as costume.
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