Santa Claus, presents, Christmas trees, stockings, snowmen-all are synonymous with Christmas. Every family has holiday traditions, whether it be attending church on Christmas eve, opening presents on Christmas morning, or listening to holiday music all through December. But what about family traditions in other countries? Although the purpose of Christmas is universal, with Christians celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, the traditions of the holiday are very diverse in different parts of the world.

In France, Christmas is also known as the “Twelfth Day.” French children leave their shoes by the fireplace on Christmas Eve in hopes that Pere Noel will fill them with wonderful gifts and sweets. Most homes will also display a nativity scene featuring small clay figurines called Santons or “little saints.”

In Italy, the Christmas celebration lasts for three weeks, but children must wait until Epiphany, January sixth, to receive their presents. Gifts are stored in a large jar known as the Urn of Fate, and are left for children by an old woman named Befana.

In spite of communist rule, there are still Christians who celebrate Christmas in China, decorating trees and hanging lights outside homes.

The children are awarded with stockings filled with gifts from Dun Che Lao Ren or the “Christmas Old Man.” Although the main winter celebrations take place around the Chinese New Year, the Christians enjoy both holidays.

Christmas in the South American countries differs slightly between countries and regions. Bolivians treat Christmas as a harvest festival, where they give thanks for the completion of last year’s work, and plan on what should be done in the upcoming year. Santa Clause is not as well-known in Brazil, but the few who do know of him refer to him as Papa Noel.

While many people celebrate Christmas in different parts of the world, the simple tradition of being joyous, generous, and celebrating this holiday with others is the same everywhere. So thank Santa Clause, Pere Noel, Befena, Dun Che Lao Ren, and Papa Noel for all the happiness they bring with them on Christmas Day.