Christmas is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in the world, but celebrations can look wonderfully different from country to country. From sunny barbecues in Australia, to candlelit hygge in Denmark, every nation has its own unique customs, foods and festivities.

If you’re moving abroad from the UK, your first Christmas overseas will be exciting, but it can also be a little bit disorienting. You might miss the frosty mornings, mince pies and the King’s Speech. The good news is, you’ll also discover new ways to experience the festive spirit. We’ve taken a look at how different countries bring their own traditions to the holiday season.

How Different Countries Celebrate Christmas

You’re probably used to the British way of celebrating Christmas and, as you’re sure to agree, there’s a lot to love about it. But, if you’re planning to move home with your family and you’re heading to a new country, Christmas will likely look a little bit different.

Australia

Forget snowflakes and frost, Christmas in Australia is in the middle of summer. Families often celebrate with beach barbecues, picnics and outdoor gatherings. You’ll see decorations and Christmas lights, but instead of mulled wine, you might find yourself sipping a chilled white or enjoying pavlova topped with tropical fruit.

Hong Kong

In Hong Kong, Christmas blends British influences with Chinese culture. Shopping centres impress shoppers with elaborate light displays, and festive menus appear across the city. Though it’s not a public holiday for everyone in Hong Kong, many locals and expats celebrate with gift exchanges and Christmas Eve dinners.

Singapore

Singapore goes all out for Christmas; think impressive decorations and dazzling light displays. Despite the heat and humidity, the festive spirit is everywhere in the city. Restaurants offer Christmas buffets, and the multicultural mix means you’ll find both traditional British roasts and Asian fusion feasts. Be sure to explore the Christmas Wonderland at Gardens by the Bay, which boasts festive light sculptures and entertainment.

France

There are a lot of Christmas traditions in France and celebrations vary by region. But, they always revolve around food. Réveillon is the Christmas Eve feast, which often includes oysters, foie gras and a Yule log cake. In the Alsace region, Christmas markets bring a fairytale atmosphere, and in Paris the city sparkles with window displays and light shows.

Italy

Italian Christmas celebrations tend to be deeply rooted in faith and family, and it’s by no means limited to one day. In fact, the season begins on 8th December with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. On Christmas Eve, many families enjoy the Feast of the Seven Fishes, followed by a Christmas Day feast featuring pasta, roast meats and panettone.

Spain

In Spain, Christmas celebrations extend well beyond December 25th. The main event is El Día de los Reyes – also known as Three Kings’ Day – on 6th January, when children receive their gifts. Families still enjoy Christmas Eve and Christmas Day feasts, but the festive season peaks with colourful parades and sweet treats like Roscón de Reyes.

Denmark

In Denmark, Christmas is all about hygge. The focus is on cosy, comforting feelings of togetherness and spending quality time together. Danes celebrate on Christmas Eve with a family dinner, often featuring roast pork, duck or goose. This is followed by risalamande, which is a rice pudding dessert. After dinner, families dance around the Christmas tree while singing carols. If your move to Denmark takes you to Copenhagen, head to Tivoli Gardens for a magical Christmas market full of lights, rides and Nordic charm.

Germany

Germany is famous for its Weihnachtsmärkte, or as they’re commonly known, Christmas markets. These are worth visiting, as it’s where you can sip Glühwein – a type of mulled wine – eat gingerbread and shop for handmade crafts. Advent is celebrated with candles, calendars and wreaths, and Christmas Eve is usually spent quietly with family. Munich, Cologne and Nuremberg are all well known for having some of the best markets.

How to Embrace Christmas in a New Country

Your first Christmas abroad might feel strange, and that’s to be expected. You might be dealing with different weather, new traditions and maybe even a different schedule of festive events. But, with a little openness and creativity, there’s no reason why you won’t enjoy Christmas abroad just as much as you did at home.

• Learn Local Traditions – Take the time to discover how locals celebrate and join in where you can. It’s a great way to connect with your new community.
• Mix Old and New – You don’t need to say goodbye to everything you love about a British Christmas. Keep your favourite UK customs, like mince pies or Christmas crackers, whilst also trying new ones from your host country.
• Decorate Your Space – Even a small tree or a few twinkling lights can make your home feel festive, so don’t shy away from decorating your space.
• Share Your Culture – Whilst you’re embracing a new way of celebrating Christmas, try to share your culture with others. Invite new friends or neighbours to experience your favourite parts of Christmas and exchange traditions.
• Join Expat or Community Events – Many cities around the world host Christmas gatherings for newcomers, especially areas with large expat communities. They’re perfect for meeting people and feeling part of the celebrations.

Regardless of where you find yourself this December, Christmas is about connecting with family, friends and the community around you. Each country adds its own charm to the season, from beachside barbecues to light displays, but the heart of the holiday remains the same. By blending your traditions with local customs, you’ll create a truly special Christmas, wherever you’re going to be calling home.

Will You Be Abroad This Christmas?

If you’re planning a move abroad, the first step to a stress-free festive season is getting your relocation organised early. At United International Removals, our expert removals team can help to make your move seamless, so you can settle into your new home in time to enjoy everything the festive season has to offer. Get in touch and start your international move today.