Christmas decorations vary widely across the globe, offering a rich tapestry of holiday traditions beyond the classic snowy scenes that are often associated with the holiday in America. While hot cocoa and falling snow set the stage in many U.S. regions, other parts of the world celebrate the season with beautiful, unique customs. This year, as you adorn your home for the holiday season, you might draw inspiration from diverse Christmas celebrations worldwide. From Japan to Scotland, many countries bring stunning holiday decorations and traditions into their festive festivities, adding a global touch to your standard holiday decor.
Julie Soefer
Germany: Christmas Tree Candles
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Germany is known for its charming Christmas decor, including Advent wreaths and Christmas pyramids. A standout decoration from Germany is candle ornaments. Consider using flameless candles alongside your standard ornaments to add warmth and charm to your Christmas tree this year. These easy-to-use, battery-operated candles provide a cozy glow without the fire risk of traditional candles.
Finland: Geometric Ornaments
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In Finland, geometric himmelis are a beloved Christmas decoration. These stunning, star-like ornaments are typically crafted from straw and hung above dining tables or on Christmas trees. You can bring this beautiful Finnish tradition into your home by using geometric ornaments in contrasting colors. Create your own with wooden skewers or straw, or simplify the process with a ready-made kit.
Italy: Glass Ornaments
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Italy is renowned for its exquisite handmade Christmas ornaments, especially the glass-blown creations that come from Murano. This Italian island is famous for its glass factories that craft beautiful blown-glass figurines and ornaments. If authentic Murano pieces aren’t available near you, then you can still capture the Italian spirit by adorning your tree with brightly colored glass ornaments.
Columbia: Candle Decor
Carson Downing
Candles, with their timeless elegance, are a staple of Christmas decor in Columbia. Indoors, candles are often found sitting on tables and windowsills, while outdoors, they illuminate streets and sidewalks. Instantly enhance your holiday decor by using candles as centerpieces, outdoor displays, or to accent your mantel.
Brazil: Nativity Scenes
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In Brazil, nativity scenes range from small figurines to life-size displays and are a cherished part of Christmas decor. You can bring this charming tradition into your own home with a minimalist wooden set or an intricate, colorful scene. With numerous styles available, finding one that suits your home’s decor should be simple. Position your favorite set on your mantel or buffet for a classic holiday touch, or create a striking outdoor display for the neighbors to see.
Japan: Paper Ornaments
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In Japan, traditional ornaments include origami swans and cranes. These stunning, hand-crafted paper birds, which are often hung on trees, symbolize honor, longevity, and good fortune. This holiday season, draw inspiration from this craft by creating your own paper ornaments at home. Then hang them on your tree or from the ceiling with fishing line for a whimsical touch.
Argentina: Cotton Snow
Adam Albright
In Argentina, where Christmas falls during the warmer months, celebrating a white Christmas means getting creative. People traditionally use fluffy cotton material on their trees in order to mimic snow. You can achieve this wintery look in your own home by adding cotton balls to your Christmas villages and trees for a fun, snowy effect.
Denmark: Advent Candles
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In Denmark, Advent calendar candles are a fun, festive way to celebrate the holiday season over the course of several weeks. Families light these beautiful numbered candles each night to count down to Christmas day. Consider using an Advent candle or decorating with other Advent calendars to maintain the Christmas spirit throughout the holiday season.
Scotland: Tartan Fabric
Julie Soefer
In Scotland, stylish tartan bows and ribbons are a festive favorite for Christmas decor. You can incorporate this classic Scottish pattern in many different ways, from tree toppers to stockings. The pretty, red plaid design also complements the traditional red and green holiday color scheme.
China: Paper Lanterns
Blaine Moats
During the holiday season in China, paper lanterns are a common sight inside of homes and out on the streets. These beautiful, versatile decorations are easy to incorporate into your own holiday decor. Create your own DIY paper ornaments to place on your Christmas tree, or hang paper lanterns and snowflakes from your ceiling for a touch of Chinese-inspired charm.
