More than 2 billion people from all over the world celebrate Christmas. Whether it’s going to Hawaii every Christmas, or watching Elf in front of the fireplace every Christmas Eve. Although, there are some pretty unique traditions all across the world. Like in the Philippines, Ligligan Parul, or “Giant Lantern Festival,” is hosted in San Fernando. It’s filled with beautiful, bright lights, which represent the Star of Bethlehem. In Sweden, the Yule Goat used to be the mascot of Christmas for the Swedish. In 1966, it was renowned as the Gavle Goat or “Giant Straw Goat.” The giant goat weighs 3.6 tons and is still loved by all. In Switzerland, families make their own advent calendars as an enjoyable activity or a gift to their children. Each day lies a different surprise for the children to open. The last day, Christmas Eve is supposed to be the biggest gift.
Some students here at Fallon have some fun Christmas traditions that they do every year. Zain Barge, a 7th grader here at Fallon, says he and his family get together with his family friends every December to have dinner. The Christmas tradition started 20 years ago. Christmas traditions are a way to connect with cousins or friends. It could be a way to hang out with your family and enjoy the holiday season.
Ms. Godoy, Course 1 Math teacher, conveys, “…for Christmas Eve, we always get together and we have dinner together, then we play games.” Ms. Godoy also adds, “When I was a kid, I always celebrated Christmas Eve with my family.” Christmas is the #1 holiday that is celebrated around the globe.
According to Lombardo Homes, a company specializing in building homes, claims, “The majority (80%) of Americans are planning to decorate for the holidays, and most put a lot of effort into it! In our survey, people said it takes them an average of four hours to decorate for Christmas!”
Mr. Wakerling, an eighth-grade English teacher and photography teacher, states, “We all watch Die Hard… of course it’s a Christmas movie.” Mr. Wakerling does this tradition with his family and ultimately just enjoys spending time with them. “It brings us all together and makes the holiday for me.” This tradition started when Mr. Wakerling was about 10 years old.
Christmas is a time to spend quality time with family or relatives. Holiday traditions that are celebrated every year can be carried on throughout generations. When you are older, it will be a memory to remember and save.