Festive Expressions: Unique Christmas Traditions Around the Globe
Explore the diverse and quirky ways Christmas is celebrated globally, from joyful skiing Santas to vibrant church services.
Christmas celebrations take on a multitude of forms worldwide in 2025, showcasing unique traditions such as skiing Santas in the US, grand gatherings in churches from Ukraine to Pakistan, and even local customs like the Christmas meat auction in London. This season of joy emphasizes unity and diverse cultural expressions of festivity.
From skiing Santas in the USA to Mass with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, and giant cuts of meat tossed to crowds in London, Christmas celebrations worldwide are reaching their peak.
Adherents in nations like Ukraine, China, and Pakistan gathered in their local churches for Christmas Eve services, as the significance of the holiday continues to resonate globally.
It's important to note that while December 25 marks Christmas day for many Christians, the observance varies, with Orthodox Christians celebrating on January 7.
Here are some of the most captivating images capturing the holiday spirit across diverse cultures.
Skiing Santa entertains attendees during the annual Waterskiing Santa event in Alexandria, Virginia.Pope Leo XIV during Christmas Eve Mass at St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City.Women capture memories in front of the Christmas tree in Bethlehem, marking the birthplace of Jesus Christ.A mother and son light candles during a Christmas Eve service in Kyiv, Ukraine.Pakistani Christians celebrate midnight Mass at Central Brooks Memorial Church in Karachi.
