Christmas Traditions in English-Speaking Countries
Christmas is one of the most important holidays in many English-speaking countries, such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Although these countries share the same language, their traditions can be a little different. Here is a short overview about how people celebrate Christmas in these places.
Christmas in the United Kingdom
In the UK, Christmas is full of old traditions. Many families decorate their homes with Christmas lights, wreaths, and a Christmas tree. On Christmas Eve, children hang stockings above the fireplace and hope that Father Christmas will bring them presents. The main family meal is usually eaten on Christmas Day. People enjoy roast turkey, vegetables, and Christmas pudding.
Christmas in the United States
In the USA, Christmas is celebrated with a lot of joy and colour. Many towns have Christmas parades, big trees with thousands of lights, and markets where people can buy decorations. Families often put presents under the tree and open them on the morning of December 25th. Some families also bake cookies for Santa Claus and leave them next to a glass of milk.
Christmas in Canada
Canada is a very big country, so traditions can be different from place to place. In many Canadian homes, families decorate the tree together while listening to Christmas music. In Quebec, where people speak French and English, there is a special meal called Réveillon, which families enjoy late on Christmas Eve. Canadians also love winter sports, so many people spend Christmas holidays skiing or ice skating.
Christmas in Australia and New Zealand
In Australia and New Zealand, Christmas comes in summer. The weather is warm, and many families celebrate outdoors. Instead of sitting by the fireplace, people often have barbecues or picnics on the beach. Santa can even be seen wearing sunglasses! Christmas dinner may include cold meats, seafood, and a dessert called pavlova.
Summary
Although Christmas traditions vary, the most important part is spending time with family and friends. No matter where people live, Christmas is a time of joy, kindness, and togetherness.
Activities
A. Reading Comprehension Questions
When do children in the UK usually open their presents?
What do many American families leave for Santa Claus?
Why are Christmas traditions different across Canada?
What season is Christmas in Australia and New Zealand?
What is the name of the special Christmas Eve meal in Quebec?
B. Vocabulary Match
Match the words with their definitions:
wreath
parade
stocking
barbecue
tradition
A. A cooking event outside, usually with grilled food
B. A long sock that children hang for presents
C. Something people have done for a long time
D. A circle made of leaves or flowers used as decoration
E. A public celebration with music and people walking together
C. True or False
In the UK, people usually eat Christmas dinner on December 24th.
Canadians sometimes eat their Christmas Eve meal very late.
Christmas in Australia is in winter.
People in the USA often have large Christmas trees with many lights.
Pavlova is a dessert popular in Australia and New Zealand.
D. Writing Task
Write 100–130 words about how you celebrate Christmas or another winter holiday in your country. Include these points:
Who you celebrate with
What special food you eat
What traditions you follow
E. Speaking Activity (Pair Work)
Discuss with your partner:
Which Christmas tradition from the text would you like to try? Why?
Do you prefer a winter or a summer Christmas?
What makes a holiday special for you?