Christmas in Sweden, Traditions and Customs
Christmas in Sweden, and the traditions in Sweden date back centuries. Nordic and Scandinavian cultures celebrate similarly, but all have their own unique customs. In Sweden the holidays start on St. Lucia's day on December 13th. Near the winter solstice this is a celebration of Saint Lucia (Lucy) who was martyred for her faith. The entire festive season is known as Jul in Sweden, and has it's own traditions and customs. Decorations The most familiar symbol of Christmas in Sweden is the garland worn around the head, traditionally by a girl wearing white robes with a red sash. This is…
Italian Christmas Traditions and Celebrations
Like most predominantly Catholic countries, Italian Christmas Traditions the festivities for Christmas begin early December. The Feast of Immaculate Conception takes place on December the 8th, and is a national holiday it Italy. As is St. Stephens day, on December 26th. Decorations It is an Italian Christmas Tradition to put out your Nativity Scene and decorate your Christmas Tree on this day. Festivities continue until January with the Feast of the Epiphany. Many Italians will spend Christmas Eve in Church. Catholic influences are still very predominant in Italy's Christmas Traditions, as Nativity Scenes are very important, a tradition believed to…