Holiday traditions are a key aspect in many cultures. The traditions that followers of these cultures celebrate each year are what make these holidays so special. Here are some of the most unique festivities and rituals that take place this upcoming holiday season. 

Hanukkah

Traditions consist of lighting menorahs, eating special potato pancakes called latkes, and spinning a top called a dreidel in exchange for gifts.

Kwanzaa

Festivities include dressing in special clothes, decorating homes with fruits and vegetables, and lighting a candle holder called a kinara.

St. Lucia Day 

This holiday in Sweden consists of daughters dressing up as “Lucia brides” in long white gowns with a wreath of burning candles on their heads. They wake up their families by singing songs and serving them coffee and baked goods. 

Christmas

This very popular holiday celebrated across the world consists of traditions like attending church, giving gifts, and sharing the day with your family. In Europe, going house to house and caroling is a huge tradition as well.

Lunar New Year

Celebrated in many countries in Asia, festivities consist of exchanging red envelopes or silk pouches containing money, setting off fireworks, cleaning the house, and holding parades with colorful costumes.