Christmas in Three Countries

by Gunther Simmermacher · December 25, 2025

Congo

The BUZZ: Christmas in Congo is more a religious feast than a commercial affair. On Christmas Eve, churches have big musical evenings featuring various choirs and a Nativity play that can go on till 5am. After Christmas Day Mass and lunch, people rest before going back to work on the 26th.

The LOOK: Decorations look much as they do anywhere else, with even fake snow spray to create that White Christmas look. At Christmas, the people dress in their best clothes — often these are the Christmas present.

The FOOD: Fufu, a paste of root vegetables and/or potatoes, is served with chicken, pork or fish and rice.

Fancy THAT: Nativity plays extend to include the Massacre of the Innocents, with Herod usually portrayed in a particularly over-the-top manner.

France

The BUZZ: During the Advent season, Christmas markets sell seasonal crafts and fare. After Midnight Mass the feast begins. Children receive their presents at Christmas, but adults tend to exchange gifts on New Year’s Day.

The LOOK: Nativity scenes are ubiquitous, with santons (little saints), local personalities and even celebrities finding a place alongside the Holy Family and the shepherds. Christmas trees often sport big, red ribbons and candles.

The FOOD: It’s France, so the food will be good and plentiful. What exactly a Christmas menu is likely to consist of depends on regionality, though poultry is a good bet. And, of course, good wine.

Fancy THAT: During Advent, the frightening Père Fouettard (left) advises St Nicholas about the naughty or nice behaviour of each child during the year.

Japan

The BUZZ: Less than 1% of Japan’s population is Christian, so what traditions exist are imported courtesy of the pervasive American culture. While Santa is beginning to assert himself, gifts are usually brought by the Japanese god Hoteiosho, who has eyes on the back of his head (useful for seeing who is naughty and nice). Japanese Christians do not emphasise the family on Christmas but rather doing good deeds.

The LOOK: Decorations usually copy Western styles, but origami swans are also popular. Decorations are removed on December 26 to prepare for the New Year, an important time for the Japanese.

The FOOD: Because of a lack of tradition, Japan has no typical Christmas fare. Special Christmas cakes are becoming popular, but the most common festive meal is fried chicken from a global fast food franchise.

Fancy THAT: The piece of music most closely associated with the Christmas season in Japan is Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony.

Published in the December 2024 issue of the Southern Cross Magazine