Are you part of a group that’s planning a get-together with friends and family for a Christmas or Hanukkah party? Party themes have become a thing these days, and it seems everyone is attempting to keep up with the most fun themes.
Over the past few years I’ve been invited to Christmas parties with themes like, come as your favorite Christmas TV or Movie character; another was for a winter wonderland, and even a murder-mystery themed party (for Christmas ??? are you kidding me??).
One of my more well-traveled friends even held a “dress in a costume from another country’s Christmas tradition” themed party. That one was interesting as I learned of many other Christmas traditions from around the world.
Just to name a few, there is a giant lantern festival held in the Philippines the Saturday before Christmas Eve. Beautiful huge lanterns, where competition is fierce for the most elaborate kaleidoscope patterns!
In Sweden they build a giant 42-foot goat built out of straw. Of course, some folks attempt to burn it down and some years they are successful. In Iceland they have the “Yule Lads” who dress up as trolls and they leave small gifts each night in the 13 days leading up to Christmas. Children place a pair of their shoes by their windows and get these small gifts. But… if you are naughty or misbehave, you might get a rotten potato in your shoes! A day of little candles is held in Columbia as folks place small, colored-paper flowers with candles in them to celebrate the Virgin Mary and the immaculate conception. Entire communities and towns follow this Christmas tradition and compete for the most beautiful displays.
So, no matter how you celebrate and enjoy the seasons bounty with family and friends… never forget to remember the reason for the season. Merry Christmas!