The Origins of Christmas and Traditional Christmas Dishes from Around the World

Hello, this is Awork Academy.

Before we know it, 2022 is coming to a close, and Christmas is just around the corner.

The atmosphere unique to the snowy season, Christmas carols playing through the streets, dazzling trees, and more
make it a special event that excites people all over the world.

Also, among students preparing for a language study abroad program,
“spending Christmas overseas” often seems to be a dream come true and a bucket-list item for many.

• It’s a warm celebration enjoyed all around the world, but
  have you ever wondered when Christmas actually began,
  the origins of Santa Claus and Rudolph,
  or what people eat in English-speaking countries?
  
  

This time, we’ll introduce the origins and culture of Christmas, along with traditional Christmas dishes from around the world.

What Is Christmas?

Christmas originally began in Christianity as a day to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.

It’s celebrated on December 25 in many countries, though some Eastern churches observe Christmas on January 7. In Christian cultures, it’s also known as the day when Santa Claus rides in on a reindeer (Rudolph), comes down the chimney, and leaves presents while children are asleep. Regardless of religion, the whole world takes on a festive mood, and department stores and shops holding Christmas sales is a sight unique to this time of year.

The Origins of Santa Claus and Rudolph

The Origin of Santa Claus

Known as “the one who brings presents to good children,” Santa Claus is said to be modeled after a real historical figure, Saint Nicholas.

He was devoted to charity work and was especially known for helping children in need, which is why he’s revered as a saint in the Catholic Church. His name changed over time in America and became today’s “Santa Claus.” The now-familiar image of Santa—red suit, white beard, plump build—is said to have taken hold through a 1931 advertising campaign by the Coca-Cola Company in the U.S.

The Birth of Rudolph

Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer, first appeared as a picture-book character in 1939, created by New York-born writer Robert L. May.
It’s the story of a small reindeer with a red nose, once left out by the others, who is given the crucial job of leading Santa’s sleigh and turns his own uniqueness into a strength. The story was later turned into a song, which reached No. 1 on the Billboard chart in 1949. It remains a beloved Christmas song around the world to this day.

Christmas Foods Around the World

① United States | Eggnog

Eggnog is an egg-based drink made only for Christmas, beloved throughout North America.

Rum, whiskey, or other spirits are sometimes added, and the flavor is often described as similar to “drinkable custard.”

It’s sometimes enjoyed mixed into coffee, and during the Christmas season, plenty of eggnog-flavored products line store shelves.

If you’re studying abroad in North America, be sure to give it a try at least once.

② Norway | Ribbe

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In Norway too, Christmas is a very important holiday.

Ribbe is a traditional dish made by cutting pork belly (with the skin on) into large pieces and roasting it in the oven.

It’s typically aged in the refrigerator for two to three days before Christmas, then roasted and eaten on the day itself.

It’s known for its crispy exterior and juicy interior.

③ Canada | Mashed Potatoes

In Canadian households, mashed potatoes are the classic of Christmas dinner classics.

They appear as a side dish alongside steak, roast meats, and other dishes, making them an essential part of the Christmas table.

Conclusion | Getting to Know World Cultures Through Christmas

This time, we introduced the origins of Christmas, the untold birth stories of Santa and Rudolph, and traditional Christmas dishes from around the world.

Knowing this kind of cultural background during your language study abroad will make conversations and events with locals even more enjoyable.

On Awork Academy’s official website, we share a wealth of information about culture, daily life, and study that will make your language study abroad experience even more enjoyable.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us anytime.