What Makes Holidays Truly “Holidays” in Each Country?
- Magdalena Motor
- Dec 8, 2025
- 3 min read
Holidays, even when celebrated at the same time of year and around similar values, look completely different from one country to another. Local traditions, flavors, rituals, and small cultural gestures create the unique atmosphere that makes holidays more than just a date on the calendar. They become a reflection of a nation’s history, spirit, and identity. So what exactly makes holidays feel like holidays in each country?
Discover with us:
1. Traditions Rooted in History
Every country carries its own story - and that story shapes how holidays are celebrated.
In Poland, Christmas Eve is a deeply religious and family-focused celebration full of Christian and folk symbolism.
In Japan, Christmas is mostly secular, known for romantic dinners and… fried chicken from KFC.
In Mexico, vibrant Posadas reenact the journey of Mary and Joseph.
History gives holidays meaning and depth.
2. Flavors and Scents That Define the Season
Few things create a holiday atmosphere as instantly as food.Traditional dishes can take us back in time, evoke childhood memories, and bring people together.
Poland – beet soup with dumplings, pierogi, poppy seed cake.
Italy – panettone and the festive “La Vigilia” dinner.
India – sweet, spiced milk-based treats.
Flavors are a cultural language - universal, yet beautifully local.
3. Music, Rituals, and Symbols
Holidays come alive through the things we do together.
Carol singing in Poland.
Christmas markets in Germany.
Light displays and decorations in the United States.
Each ritual carries emotions and builds a sense of belonging.
4. Climate and Scenery
A country’s environment shapes how its holidays look and feel.
Scandinavia – long winter nights brightened by candles and hygge coziness.
Australia – beach barbecues in 30°C sunshine.
Canada – snowy landscapes, skiing, and hot chocolate.
Weather creates a backdrop that becomes part of the magic.
5. Family and Time Together
In many cultures, holidays mean pausing daily life and reconnecting with loved ones, but each nation approaches it differently:
Spaniards stay up late on Christmas Eve, celebrating until morning.
Americans focus on presents, decorations, and shared activities.
Poles emphasize spirituality, tradition, and long meals with family.
6. Expectations and Emotions
Holidays are also shaped by what we carry inside - anticipation, nostalgia, excitement, or a sense of belonging.These feelings make holidays special, whether you’re surrounded by snow or palm trees.
What makes holidays “holidays” in any given country is a blend of history, culture, traditions, flavors, rituals, climate, and the people who share them. Every nation creates its own holiday “world,” which is why traveling during festive seasons can feel like stepping into entirely new realities.
We have reached the end of this article, if you’re planning any trips, be sure to check out our previous blogs for more tips on where to eat, drink, and explore. Stay tuned for more articles on our website. Follow us on our instagram @thewalkingparrot to be continuously updated on new releases and join us as we embark on new adventures. We will be back soon with a new article! If you're visiting Lisbon, make sure to try our Fado, Food, and Wine tour.
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