Mexico
Menu and Traditions : Though ham and turkey are staples for the Christmas holiday in Mexico , this country leaves the gravy behind , taking the bird to a different level with a mole ; a sauce that has unique nuances depending on the region in which it ’ s prepared . Tamales , atole and ponche are also traditional food items popular for the holidays and are found during the posadas as well .
Atole , a thick drink like hot chocolate , is made with masa harina , a cornmeal that is also used to make tortillas . Ponche is a hot fruity punch made with fruits like prunes , guava , apples and pears as well as hibiscus , cane sugar and spices . It can be served with or without alcohol .
While trees are up for Christmas , a bigger focus is the nativity display . Many Mexicans are Christians with over 75 % distinguishing as Catholics . Gifts are exchanged on Christmas Eve , which is when families get together to celebrate . Children leave milk and cookies for Santa . On Three Kings Day , January 5 , children leave their shoes hoping for gifts and money .
-Laura , from Mexico City , Mexico
Brazil
Menu and Traditions : Brazil ’ s Christmas menu is similar to a Thanksgiving meal in the U . S . It ’ s a delicious spread of turkey , gravy , ham , stuffing , etc . However , the country is home to diverse groups of people , who also have entwined their heritage with Brazil ’ s customs . “ My
Christmas market in Lviv ,, Ukraine favorite is turkey , [ which ] for me tastes like Christmas ,” says Gisele of her native country ’ s tradition .
Nearly 90 % of Brazilians identify as Christians . It ’ s summer in Brazil during the holiday season , making beach trips a staple event . Houses are decorated inside and out , complete with trees , lights and festive wreaths . Decorations are put up in the beginning of December and left up until January 6 . Nativity scenes are immensely popular , known as Presepio , and are set up in churches starting at the beginning of December . Santa Claus is known as Papai Noel or Bom Velhinho , which translates to “ Good Old Man .” Children often leave a sock in hopes Papai Noel will exchange it for a present . Amigo secreto , or secret friends , are immensely popular in social circles and work groups .
Families get together and celebrate on Christmas Eve . At midnight , gifts are exchanged . Santa makes an appearance for all to see , but no treats are left for Father Christmas .
Poland
Menu and Traditions :
Wigilia , a traditional Christmas Eve vigil and supper , is observed in Poland . Many attribute the entire 24th of December as Wigilia , encompassing the tradition of midnight Mass in the predominately Roman Catholic country . Many fast before serving 12 dishes during dinner . These items represent the 12 Apostles .
Historically , Saint Nicholas would bring gifts on December 6 . However , in different families and communities , he sometimes appears on both December 6 and 25 .
Pierogis are dumplings made from farmer ’ s cheese , onions and potatoes . Families make a light beet soup called borscht . A main signature dish is golumpki , which are stuffed cabbage rolls .
Meat is left out of the evening meal , though fish may be served . Before dinner , a wafer is shared , giving each other best wishes .
ST JOHNS PARENT MAGAZINE | 9