Christmas Around The World

Those of us who celebrate Christmas probably do so on December 25th, on the Gregorian calendar that most countries use, which is the most common date around the world, although, some of the Orthodox churches celebrate it on December 25th in the Julian calendar, which currently equates to January 7th for the rest of us, and some Armenian churches use January the 6th or 19th.
In some countries, the main Christmas meal and exchanging presents takes place on Christmas Eve. In others, it’s Christmas Day.
We are all different, which is another cause for celebration!

And we all also eat different Christmas foods around the world.
Some countries have 12 courses to represent the 12 disciples or the 12 days of Christmas. Others have just a few.

For many in the UK, Canada or the US, I expect it will be the traditional turkey and trimmings, followed by mince pies, Christmas cake or gingerbread!

Scandinavian countries enjoy fish dishes or smorgasbord - a varied selection of dishes, such as cold meats, cheese, pickled fish, beetroot, cabbage, sausages and bread.
Perhaps something like cinnamon buns to follow!

In Romania, pork and other pig meats are the most popular Christmas food. And they have Cozonac, which is similar to panettone or sweet bread.

In Australia, cold meats, fish, prawns, and other shellfish with salad are often on the menu. With pavlova to follow!

So, if you celebrate Christmas, when do you exchange presents? Are there any other Christmas traditions peculiar to your country?
Do you have a traditional Christmas meal that you enjoy with family and/or friends? If so, what do you have, and when do you have it?
What are the Christmas dishes that you really enjoy?

Let’s work up an appetite for Christmas today, discussing all things festive and food!