Celebrations take place throughout the world during the whole month of December. There are so many different celebrations and traditions to choose from, so it may be tough to know where to start. This festive guide will make your holiday season brighter by learning about some of the world’s most commonly celebrated holidays! It doesn’t matter whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa. There is a holiday out there for everyone to enjoy. These get-togethers were shaped by various religious and cultural practices and rituals. Everyone has a good time throughout Christmas, regardless of the temperature or precipitation. Pick up your passport and begin planning your next adventure.
List of Holidays in December Month 2022
December is often a month that brings out the best in people due to the holiday spirit. Because people are friendlier and more laughter is in the air, events like this are taking place far more often. Because of this, people are more likely to offer and receive gifts at this time of year and feel better. Many people observe the December holidays due to long-held cultural and religious traditions. They usually involve food, music, and rituals exclusive to that country or religion, making them an excellent opportunity to connect with your own culture or religion.
December 1st – World AIDS Day
The United Nations General Assembly chooses December 1 to celebrate World AIDS Day each year. To increase awareness of the illness and its terrible consequences, AIDS Awareness Day is commemorated once a year on December 1. On December 1st, 1988, the first-ever World AIDS Day was created to bring more attention to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. This day was established by the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) of the United Nations to raise awareness about the catastrophic impact that AIDS has on individuals worldwide.
This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the disease, with various events and activities taking place. This event covers a wide spectrum of gatherings, including memorial services, art displays, and talks. In addition, December 1 is observed as World AIDS Day to honor those who have passed away as a result of the disease and to show support for those currently facing it. Today, we can all make a difference in the fight against AIDS.
December 5th – Krampusnacht
This one is celebrated with a great deal of laughter in Austria, Germany, and other alpine countries. The children who have been acting inappropriately will have consequences as a result of this celebration. The name of the Krampus Festival is where the term “Krampus” comes from. Those that act impolitely will suffer the consequences at the hands of this evil beast.
It is currently unknown where the celebration or its traditions originated. The vast majority of adults, on the other hand, celebrate this holiday with the intention of frightening children during the winter holiday season. The vast majority of people observe the holiday throughout December. The festivities that take place in the various towns are diverse and extensive. During this yearly event, adults costumed as werewolves chase and scare youngsters acting out of control.
December 6th – St. Nicholas Day
People throughout the globe celebrate St. Nicholas Day on December 6th. This holiday commemorates the life and legacy of Christian saint St. Nicholas, famed for his charitable deeds and kind spirit. In honour of Saint Nicholas, considered the patron saint of the poor and less fortunate, many people exchange gifts with one another and eat festive food on his holiday.
For instance, on this day, some individuals choose to hang their stockings or leave their shoes out in the hopes that St. Nicholas will fill them with presents. In the spirit of St. Nicholas Day, we may all try as much as possible to live up to his example of kindness and generosity.
December 8th – Bodhi Day
On Bodhi Day, also known as the Festival of Enlightenment, Siddhartha Gautama, who would eventually become the Buddha, acquired enlightenment under a Bodhi tree. On December 8th, countries throughout the world celebrate it. Bodhi Day, which marks the beginning of the Buddhist year, is traditionally observed as a day of meditation and rebirth among Buddhists.
Chanting, meditation, and quality time spent with loved ones are all integral to the celebrations. Traditional attire is worn by worshippers when they make food gifts and pray while visiting temples in Sri Lanka and Thailand. Bodhi Day is a significant holiday for Buddhists, and the value of its impact is difficult to overestimate. During this time, it is beneficial to practice meditation and reflects on the spiritual journey that each individual is on.
December 8th – Immaculate Conception
In nations like Argentina, the United States, Brazil, Brazil, and the Philippines, as well as in other countries in Europe and Asia, most of the population is catholic and celebrates this holiday. A significant period in the development of the Catholic Church will be recognized at this year’s Feast of the Immaculate Conception. The celebration of Saint Nicholas starts on December 8 and continues for the whole week leading up to Christmas.
As a result of his conception without sin, Jesus was born in a manger and grew up during this era. To mark the significance of this monumental event, almost one billion people are expected to converge in churches worldwide. A mass for “the happiness of God in our days” was first said by Pope Clement VI on December 8th, 1348, at nine in the morning local time in Rome. The mass was named after the phrase “the gladness of God in our times.”
December 10th – Human Rights Day
In 1948, the General Assembly of the United Nations officially agreed to adopt the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which at the time was also referred to as the Universal Declaration of Human Freedom. Regardless of colour, religion, nationality, or gender identity, every person has the right to the freedoms and rights outlined in this treaty.
This is true for everyone. Each year, the United Nations hosts a celebration of Human Rights Day to pay tribute to the adoption of the declaration and assess the progress made in the fight to protect human rights. In addition to the right to life and freedom from slavery, the UDHR protects several other fundamental human rights.
December 13th – Saint Lucia’s Day
Compared to other holidays, Saint Lucia’s Day isn’t as often observed as the many December festivals across the globe. The feast day of Saint Lucia, the island nation’s patron saint is observed annually on December 13th. Parades, cookouts, and specialized religious services are typical activities on this day. Today is the official start of the Christmas season in several countries, including Italy and Sweden.
On Saint Lucia’s Day, presents are given to one another, meals are consumed, and quality time is spent with family. During this time of year, people reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and revel in the spirit of giving that it symbolizes. They hope you have a joyful and healthy holiday season, regardless of whether or not you celebrate Saint Lucia’s Day.
December 16-24 is Las Posadas
It is a proclamation of the ideals of freedom, justice, and peace that aims to unite the world. On December 10, 1948, the International Labour Organization (ILO), the United Nations Conference on Human Rights (UNCHR), and the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) worked together to have it approved by the United Nations General Assembly. A total of 193 nations are parties to the Convention of the United Nations on the Rights of the Child (UNCHR).
The International Labour Organization (ILO), founded in 1919, now counts more than 200 nations among its membership. UNESCO, which stands for the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, has operated independently since 1945. The International Labour Organization (ILO), a part of the system of the United Nations, works to enhance social and economic progress worldwide to promote peace.
December 18-26 is Hanukkah
Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday that celebrates the reopening of the Temple in Jerusalem after lengthy captivity. The celebration of Hanukkah, which lasts for eight days, starts on the 25th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev. The Jewish people will celebrate Hanukkah from the 18th to the 26th of December in 2022. Hanukkah is a celebration that is celebrated all over the globe during December.
This festival honours the Maccabees, a group of Jewish soldiers who triumphed against the Syrian-Greeks to recover ownership of the Temple. Each night of Hanukkah, candles are lit to commemorate the oil miracle, which lasted for eight nights even though it should have only lasted for one. Latkes, which are potato pancakes, and sufganiyot that is jam-filled doughnuts, are two of their most beloved types of food to eat.
December 20th – International Human Solidarity Day
On this day in 1863, the International Red Cross was founded, thus International Human Solidarity Day. This day also serves as a memorial for humanitarianism, neutrality, and independence, three of the core principles supported by the International Red Cross. We are all part of the same human family, and as such, we must look out for the well-being of our fellow humans.
The concept of human solidarity is celebrated annually on December 10, also known as International Human Solidarity Day. On this day, individuals are encouraged to reflect on how they might better encourage human unity in their own lives. This day serves as a sad reminder that we are all interrelated and must do our best amid the holiday celebrations that occur all around the globe in December.
December 21st – Winter Solstice
The winter solstice occurs on either December 21 or 22, around this time. The Northern Hemisphere has its longest night and shortest day of the year. It marks the beginning of winter and the end of the shortest period of daylight during the year. The word “solstice” comes from the Latin word “solstitium,” which translates to “sun stands still.” The sun seems to remain in the same place in the sky after reaching its most southernmost position.
The winter solstice, which occurs around this time of year, is celebrated by many civilizations as a time to start fresh and begin rebirth. People in Scandinavia, for instance, observe Yule, a celebration that marks the beginning of winter and celebrates the arrival of the holiday season. Traditions associated with Yule include evergreen boughs in holiday decoration, lighting fires with logs, and consuming traditional holiday foods such as gingerbread cookies and ham for the Christmas feast.
December 21st – Yule
Yule is a celebration held throughout the winter season that honors the sun’s rebirth. Yule is a holiday that a diverse group of people observes. These people include Druids, Pagans, and Wiccans. Yule is celebrated in its whole, beginning on the 21st of December and continuing until the first of January each year. In addition, this is a time for celebrations, exchanging gifts, and getting together with one’s relatives.
To celebrate the coming winter’s end and the return of the sun, many people decry the halls of their homes with holly and evergreen trees, cook delicious foods, and light candles. There are many different ways to celebrate Yule, but what matters the most is spending time with the people you care about the most.
December 23st – Festivus
Festival of Festivus was founded in 1966 by Seinfeld writer Dan O’Keefe. A non-religious Christmas celebration takes place on the 23rd of December. Typical activity during Festivus festivities is the Festivus meal, during which guests engage in “feats of strength,” share stories about their lives, vent their frustrations, and tell tales about their lives. Traditions such as the bare metal ‘Festivus pole’ and the ‘Airing of Grievances’ also play a significant role in the celebrations surrounding Festivus. Even if Festivus isn’t your thing, hope you have a wonderful and healthy Christmas season.
December 24st – Christmas Eve
Christmas Eve, which is celebrated as a significant day for Christians worldwide, is another one of the most important international celebrations in December. On this day, it is typical to participate in pre-Christmas festivities such as getting together with family and attending church services. In addition to exchanging gifts, many families choose to enjoy their traditional Christmas dinner on this day.
In many countries, including Poland, Germany, and Austria, the most significant event throughout the holiday season occurs on the evening before Christmas. On this day, the Christian community gathers in the church to celebrate Christmas by singing carols and handing out gifts. Evenings are perfect for spending time with loved ones while enjoying a delicious meal.
December 25st – Christmas
Christmas is a time to remember the birth of Jesus Christ, as the name indicates. Christmas is one of the most important festivals for Christians throughout the world. Still, it is also a holiday celebrated by people of other faiths and no religion at all. A well-known figure who celebrates Christmas is frequently referred to as the “face” of the holiday as Santa Claus, also known as Father Christmas.
Many people think children get gifts from Santa Claus on Christmas Day or the days immediately before the holiday. Participating in religious services, spending time with family and friends, and giving gifts are traditional Christmas activities. For many individuals throughout the globe, Christmas is also a time to give to those less fortunate than themselves.
It would be a wonderful approach to accomplish your goal if you volunteered at a soup kitchen in your community or donated toys to a children’s hospital. No matter how you choose to observe the holiday, Christmas is a joyful time filled with feelings of love and hope for everyone.
December 26st – Boxing Day
This is one of the greatest ways to demonstrate your love and devotion. People all across the globe make the most of the holiday season by celebrating the day on the day after Christmas and taking advantage of the month-long break. At this time of year, it is customary to provide those in need as well as servants with packages of food. The event takes place in several different nations, including Australia, the United States of America, the Bahamas, South Africa, and Canada, to name just a few. It will be a day to remember all the people who have served us, from postmen to security guards to cooks.
December 26st – St. Stephen’s Day
St. Stephen’s Day honours the martyr who was stoned after 40 days of preaching. Nobody who was a follower of Stephen’s would ever perish as long as Jesus had the stone he had given to Stephen in his possession. He died on the same day that he was ordained as a Roman Catholic priest in Esztergom, the capital city of Hungary’s first Christian monarch. In more than 25 countries, traditional dishes such as stuffed cabbage and buckwheat dumplings known as Halushky are highly regarded.
December 26 – January 1 is Kwanzaa
The holiday known as Kwanzaa is a celebration of family, culture, and community that lasts for seven days. The festival is held for seven days and pays homage to the seven pillars around which Buddhism is built. The words “cooperative economics,” “self-determination,” and “creativity” are only a few examples of the many concepts that make up the “Cooperative Principles.”
The people follow the Nguzo Saba, which translates to “the seven principles that lead Kwanzaa celebrations.” According to Kwanzaa’s founder Maulana Karenga, Nguzo Saba is an African proverb that describes the ethical and moral standards for living. People from all over Africa and parts of the United States get together every day throughout the festival to celebrate, enjoy each other’s company, and exchange gifts, food, and music while burning candles as a custom.
December 31st – New Year’s Eve
The festivities around Christmas, which have lasted a whole month, have finally ended. On the night of a new year, people start a new section of their life, just as a new book begins with a blank page. People celebrate the good times they had in the previous year by reflecting on the night before the New Year begins. Around the world, people take the day off work and school to celebrate the holiday.
The festival is celebrated in a style that is distinctive to every culture. People in every region of the country get together for enormous celebrations outside or indoors. Conversely, some are just interested in exchanging and getting things. On this page, you’ll find a list of December’s most important religious and cultural celebrations. As a consequence, you will get an explanation of the importance of each holiday.
So, you’re excited for the holiday season leading up to Christmas. Now is the time to begin preparations for the next holiday season so that you may spend time with the people you care about and create memories that will last a lifetime.
December 31st – Omisoka
Omisoka, the last of all the December holidays celebrated across the globe, is observed in Japan on the 31st. People celebrate the beginning of the New Year by exchanging presents with one another, eating unique cuisines, and participating in other traditions on this day. At the beginning of the New Year, it is traditional in Japan to celebrate the Omisoka festival by getting together with loved ones and close friends. Attending a party on New Year’s Eve or going to Paris to view the fireworks display at the Eiffel Tower are great ways to feel like you’re participating in the Omisoka celebration, even if you’re not in Japan.
Conclusion
People from around the world come together to celebrate the holiday season’s myriad religious and secular traditions during December. This season encourages us to give back to our communities and celebrate our differences. When it comes to celebrating the holiday season, each of us has our unique customs. Hope you have a fantastic Christmas and that the New Year brings you nothing but joy and good health. Wish you all happy holidays, and best wishes for a prosperous new year.
