Thinking beyond borders
I’m trying to expand my appreciation for the holiday traditions of cultures other than my own. I decided to start by finding out if other countries send Christmas and holiday cards as so many of us do in America. I discovered a rich tapestry of holiday traditions and greetings that add light and magic to this sacred time of year.
Japan - Nengajo (New Year's Greeting Cards):
In Japan, the tradition is to send nengajo, which are New Year's greeting cards. These are postcards sent to friends and family to arrive on January 1st. The designs often include the zodiac animal for the new year and may include wishes for happiness and prosperity.United Kingdom - Charity Christmas Cards:
In the UK, it's common to purchase Christmas cards where a portion of the proceeds goes to charity. These cards often feature traditional Christmas imagery like snow scenes, robins, and holly.Sweden - Julkort (Christmas Cards):
Swedish Christmas cards, or julkort, often feature traditional Swedish Christmas symbols like Saint Lucia, tomten (Swedish Santa), and winter scenes. They are typically sent out a few weeks before Christmas.Italy - Auguri di Natale:
Italian Christmas cards, “Auguri di Natale," often contain religious imagery such as nativity scenes or the Star of Bethlehem, reflecting the country's strong Catholic heritage.Australia - Summer-themed Christmas Cards:
Since Christmas in Australia falls in summer, their holiday cards often feature summer themes like beaches, barbecues, and Australian wildlife wearing Santa hats.Mexico - Tarjetas Navideñas:
In Mexico, Christmas cards, or tarjetas navideñas, often feature religious imagery, poinsettias (known as "Noche Buena" in Mexico), and sometimes elements of traditional Mexican art.Netherlands - Kerstkaarten:
Dutch Christmas cards, or kerstkaarten, may depict winter landscapes, Sinterklaas (St. Nicholas), or modern Christmas themes. Sending these cards is a deeply rooted tradition in the Netherlands.China - New Year Cards for Spring Festival:
In China, while Western-style Christmas cards are becoming more popular, traditional greeting cards are sent for the Spring Festival, or Chinese New Year, featuring motifs like lanterns, dragons, and red and gold colors symbolizing good luck and prosperity.South Korea - Seollal (Lunar New Year) Cards:
In South Korea, it's common to send greeting cards for Seollal, the Lunar New Year. These cards often feature traditional Korean motifs and sometimes include New Year's wishes in calligraphy.India - Diwali Cards:
In India, while Christmas cards are exchanged among Christians, a more widespread practice is sending Diwali cards, celebrating the Hindu festival of lights. These cards often feature lamps, fireworks, and religious symbols.
Each of these variations reflects the country’s unique cultural and religious background and its individual approach to holiday celebrations. If you want to learn more directly from citizens of other countries, consider finding an international pen pal. Here are a few organizations to explore for that:
Merry Christmas from Elizabeth at Heartspoken!
Coming Up Next Week
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What a delightful story! What fun to get a peek into other cultures. Thank you for sharing.
As a person who loves to travel and experience new people and places, I love this article. Getting a peek into other cultures and rituals is a treat!