AAA Travel Tips / Christmas Around the World

Christmas Around the World

iStockphoto.com/romrodinka
By Samantha Brown , Host of “Samantha Brown’s Places to Love”
March 31, 2022
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The holiday season is in full swing and all around the world people are celebrating the arrival of Christmas with giant feasts, giving gifts, singing carols and religious and family traditions. One of the things I like to do is explore the world and see what people are doing to fill their holiday with joy and bright-eyed wonder. If you’re traveling over Christmas, don’t forget to bring along whatever traditions you can fit in your suitcase. If you’re like me, you’ll find reasons to celebrate Christmas around every corner … wherever you may be.
If you were to shake the Earth like a giant snow globe, this is what you might see as the snow floats slowly to the bottom. In honor of Christmas around the world, here are a few places that know how to celebrate:

Paris, France

How magical would it be to skate at the Eiffel Tower at night? The rink opens every holiday season and even provides free skates. Enjoy a hot chocolate and watch, or jump on the ice to try it yourself.
iStockphoto.com/KonstantinGushcha

Moscow, Russia

Speaking of a snow globe, this gigantic 38-foot Christmas ornament located in central Moscow is in the Guinness World Records for the largest Christmas toy in the world.

Edinburgh, Scotland

I’ve always had a soft spot for pandas. They are so fun and cuddly! At the Edinburgh Zoo in Scotland, Tian Tian eats this special Christmas tree cake. You can tell he’s ready to grab that star right off the top!
iStockphoto.com/AG-ChapelHill

Sydney, Australia

How does Santa arrive in Sydney? Not like the rest of the world. He comes to town on an inflatable rescue boat on the shore of Coogee Beach. No elves or reindeer required!

Tokyo, Japan

Every year hundreds of runners in Santa costumes raise money for children during the holiday season in Tokyo. A 1.5-mile run through the city makes for a festive sight and some adorable Santa selfies!
iStockphoto.com/RomanBabakin

Nuremberg, Germany

Dating back to 1628, the oldest Christkindlesmarkt (Christ Child Market) in the central square in Nuremberg’s old town attracts about 2 million visitors each year. Stroll through the market while you enjoy the incredible gingerbread with a hot mulled wine. This is where I’m spending Christmas with my family this year! #bucketlist
X