1. Holiday Traditions Around the World

2. Australia Carols by Candlelight ◦ Started in 1937 ◦ Norman Banks (a radio DJ) was walking home on Christmas Eve when he saw an old woman listening to Christmas music and singing all alone ◦ He then had the idea to gather a group of people together and sing carols together by candlelight ◦ Today the event is so large it is broadcast on TV

3. India

4. Canada Mummering ◦ People dress up in silly costumes that they find around their house and go to different houses in their neighborhood ◦ If they are let into someone’s house they will usually give a performance such as singing or dancing ◦ The hosts then must guess the mummers identity and offer them food and drink

5. England (and many other places) Polar Bear Swim ◦ People going swimming in near-freezing waters normally to raise money for charity

6. Hanukkah A Jewish holiday celebrated around the same time as Christmas ◦ Called the “Holiday of Lights” ◦ Light 8 candles on the menorah

7. Kwanza An African-American tradition honoring African heritage created in 1966 ◦ Lasts for 10 days (December 26 – January 1) ◦ Ends with a big feast and gift giving ◦ Has 7 core principles – unity, self determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith