Waterskiing Santas and Roast Donkey: Unusual Christmas Traditions Worldwide

Christmas celebrations are underway across the globe, featuring both solemn services and unique local traditions. In London, hundreds of "Santas" on waterskis raced down the River Thames. The event raised money for charity. In Bethlehem, the traditional birthplace of Jesus, pilgrims gathered for prayers at the Church of the Nativity. The atmosphere was more subdued than usual due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Other notable traditions include the Austrian "Krampus," a frightening figure who punishes misbehaving children. In Caracas, Venezuela, many residents roller-skate to early morning church services. In parts of South Africa, a festive meal often includes deep-fried caterpillars. In rural Iceland, a traditional Christmas feast might feature smoked lamb, while in rural Norway, some enjoy "smalahove," or smoked sheep's head. Japan's popular Christmas dinner is fried chicken, often ordered from restaurants like KFC. In Greenland, a typical holiday dish is "kiviak," which is raw seabird fermented inside a seal skin for months. These diverse customs show how cultures blend Christmas with their own heritage and history.