Looking for some Christmas cheer? Check out these 8 fascinating glass ornament traditions from around the world! These traditions will get you in the spirit of the season and show you how diverse people can be when it comes to celebrating Christmas. From Sweden’s Julbocken to America’s Elf on the Shelf, there is a lot of interesting history behind these ornaments. We hope you enjoy reading about them as much as we enjoyed writing about them!
Sweden’s Julbocken
Sweden’s Julbocken is a popular Christmas decoration that represents a goat. The tradition started with Saint Nicholas, who was said to travel on a white horse and give presents to good children. The Julbocken became associated with Saint Nicholas over time, eventually becoming a Christmas symbol. In Sweden, the Julbocken is usually made of straw and decorated with ribbons, candles, and other festive items.
America’s Elf
America’s Elf on the Shelf is another popular Christmas decoration. This tradition started in the 1930s with two elves named Sam and Jingle. These elves would visit homes during Christmastime and report to Santa Claus whether the children in those homes had been naughty or nice. The tradition gained popularity in the 1950s and has since become a staple of Christmas for many families.
Germany’s Nutcrackers
Germany’s Nutcrackers are another popular Christmas decoration. These nutcrackers were originally designed to crack nuts, but they eventually became a symbol of good luck. In Germany, it is said that if you put a nut under your pillow on Christmas Eve, the Nutcracker will come and take it away. This tradition is believed to bring good luck and fortune to those who partake in it.
Spain’s Three Kings
Spain’s Three Kings are another popular Christmas decoration. These kings visit homes on January 6th, the day after Epiphany, to bring presents to children. In Spain, it is customary to put a shoe outside your door on Epiphany Eve in hopes that the Three Kings will leave you a gift.
Italy’s Presepio
Italy’s Presepio is a popular Christmas decoration that symbolizes the Nativity story. This tradition originated in Naples in the 1600s and has become a staple of Italian Christmas culture. The Presepio is usually made of wood and contains figures of Mary, Joseph, Jesus, the shepherds, and the wise men.
Norway’s Julenissen
Norway’s Julenissen is a popular Christmas decoration that represents Santa Claus. This tradition started in the 1700s and has become a staple of Norwegian Christmas culture. The Julenissen is usually made of straw and clothes and is often seen carrying a sack of gifts.
Lat’s Ziemassvētku eglīte
Latvia’s Ziemassvētku eglīte is a popular Christmas decoration that represents a tree. This tradition started in the 1800s and has become a staple of Latvian Christmas culture. The Ziemassvētku eglīte is usually made of wood or metal and is often decorated with lights and ornaments.
Ukraine’s Sviatky
Ukraine’s Sviatky are popular Christmas decorations that represent the family of Jesus Christ. These decorations are usually made of straw, cloth, or metal and are often displayed near Nativity scenes. In Ukraine, it is customary to bless Sviatky before putting them up for Christmas.