As the holiday season approaches, families worldwide prepare to partake in their annual traditions. While activities like decorating the tree, singing carols, and exchanging gifts are common, some clans have developed their own unique – and often surprising – ways to celebrate. From movie marathons to themed feasts, these quirky customs put a whole new spin on holiday merriment.
Unusual Holiday Rituals Around the Globe
One family’s idea of a perfect Christmas morning? Settling in for a viewing of the classic mobster film, The Godfather. An anonymous source shared that after a hearty breakfast of bacon and eggs, the whole clan gathers in their pajamas to watch the Corleone family navigate the criminal underworld. “Nothing says holiday spirit like watching James Caan prep Al Pacino for a hit,” the source quipped.
Themed meals are another popular way families put their stamp on the season. A Scandinavian household hosts an annual Viking feast, complete with historically accurate dishes and costumes. Guests dine on hearty stews, rustic breads, and mead while decked out in furs and armor.
Festive Attire and Decor
Some take a more lighthearted approach to holiday garb. One British family has a tradition of wearing the most garish and over-the-top Christmas sweaters they can find, trying to outdo each other every year. “It started as a joke, but now it’s a full-on competition,” a relative confided. “Gran is the reigning champ – you should have seen the monstrosity she found last year!”
We spend months scouring thrift shops and online to find the most ridiculous sweaters imaginable. The more pom poms, jingle bells, and light-up elements, the better!
– Anonymous ugly sweater aficionado
Decorations also take on a creative flair in some households. One American family eschews the traditional evergreen in favor of a Christmas cactus. “We’re originally from Arizona, so it’s a nod to our roots,” a family member explained. They bedeck the prickly plant with strings of chili pepper lights and mini sombreros.
Offbeat Gift Exchanges
Gift-giving customs range from sentimental to silly. A Canadian clan created a “traveling gift box” that has been passed around for over a decade. Each year, the recipient adds an item before sending it on its merry way.
- The box has traversed the globe, acquiring mementos from far-flung locales
- Contents range from handmade treasures to kitschy souvenirs
- Half the fun is wondering what the next addition will be
Other families opt for a more unconventional approach to presents. “We do a White Elephant gift exchange with a twist,” a source divulged. Participants must wrap their contributions in duct tape, adding an extra challenge to the game. “Watching Uncle Joe struggle to open that package is the highlight of our holiday!”
Holiday Hijinks
Pranks and friendly competitions also make an appearance during the festive season. One mischievous family hides a pickle ornament on their tree, and whoever finds it first gets an extra present. Another clan stages an annual holiday scavenger hunt, leaving clever clues around the house that lead to a grand prize.
Last year’s hunt had us running all over town, deciphering riddles and performing silly tasks. I had to sing ‘Jingle Bells’ in the middle of the mall to get the next clue!
– Scavenger hunt participant
No matter how quirky or unconventional, these unique traditions are a cherished part of each family’s holiday celebration. They create a sense of belonging, shared history, and joy that transcends the mere exchange of gifts or feasting on seasonal dishes. As one wise reveler put it, “The holidays are really about coming together and creating memories. If that means watching mobster movies in our jammies or wearing the ugliest sweaters known to man, so be it!”
