The University of Exeter is a melting pot of diverse cultures, and what better way to enjoy the festive season than by engaging in some international Christmas traditions? My name is Remie and whether you’re spending the holidays in Exeter or back home, why not bring some fun, global customs to your student life? From quirky games to festive foods, here are some international Christmas traditions that are perfect for all of you as university students to take part in for a bit of fun and festive cheer!
1. Secret Santa Gift Exchange – The United States and United Kingdom
One of the most widely practiced traditions in the UK and the US is the Secret Santa gift exchange. It’s a fun way to spread holiday cheer, and it doesn’t require a huge budget. All you need is a group of friends or flat mates, a bit of mystery, and the thrill of finding the perfect gift for someone—whether it’s something silly, thoughtful, or useful. Hosting a Secret Santa party is an easy and interactive way to enjoy the festive spirit with your fellow students, and you can make it even more exciting by setting quirky rules (e.g., a themed gift, a homemade present, or a 're-gift' challenge!).
A personal tip from me is to make the whole process much easier, use a website likto help organize everything!
2. Christmas Pickle Game – Germany and the US
This quirky tradition originates in Germany and has become quite popular in the United States. The Christmas Pickle is a glass ornament shaped like a pickle that’s hidden in the Christmas tree, and the person who finds it first is said to receive an extra gift or a year of good luck. This light-hearted game is a perfect way to bring some fun to your flat’s Christmas decorations. You can either buy a pickle ornament or just make your own and challenge your friends to a playful hunt for the hidden “pickle.”
3. Christmas Market Vibes – Germany
If you're missing the magic of a traditional European Christmas market, you can easily recreate the atmosphere with your friends. Germany is famous for its Christmas markets, where festive lights, mulled wine (or Glühwein), handcrafted decorations, and delicious treats fill the air. While Exeter may not have the same scale, the Christmas Market in the city centre is still a great place to grab festive treats and enjoy the holiday spirit. Whilst you’re already there you might as well continue to Winter Wonderland which is located in the Northernhay Gardens! You can also make your own mini-Christmas market in your flat! Set up a small hot chocolate station, bake gingerbread cookies, and exchange small homemade or thoughtful gifts. It’s a fantastic way to bond with your friends while embracing the warm, festive atmosphere of a market.
4. Las Posadas – Mexico
While the full Las Posadas tradition involves a procession, you can still enjoy a fun version of this Mexican Christmas celebration. Traditionally, Las Posadas is a re-enactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for a place to stay in Bethlehem, and it’s often celebrated with singing and door-to-door visits. You can recreate this in a fun, simplified way by organizing a Las Posadas night with your flat mates or friends. Prepare a playlist of festive carols, hand out small treats, and take turns hosting each other for a “shelter” stop in your building. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit and connect with other people in your building. Make sure to go in groups and stay safe while having fun!
5. KFC Christmas Dinner – Japan
In Japan, Christmas is uniquely celebrated with a festive meal from KFC. While this may sound unusual, it’s a fun example of how different cultures adapt the holiday. This tradition has become so popular that many families order their KFC meals in advance, and some even have special Christmas-themed chicken buckets! While you might not be able to get a full Christmas dinner from KFC in Exeter, you can still have some fun with this concept by hosting a non-traditional Christmas dinner or still ordering a few things off the menu. Take it further and why not invite friends over for a comfort-food feast featuring pizza, takeaway, or your favourite snack foods? It’s a lighthearted and easy way to celebrate with other people without the stress of a big meal.
6. St. Lucia Day – Sweden
In Sweden, St. Lucia Day (December 13th) marks the beginning of the Christmas season. The tradition features processions of children dressed in white robes, with the eldest girl wearing a crown of candles. While you may not be able to recreate the full procession in Exeter, you can still participate in a fun way by hosting a St. Lucia breakfast with your friends. Try your hand at baking Swedish saffron buns, lussekatter, which are traditionally made for the occasion, or serve up some Swedish treats like pepparkakor (gingerbread cookies) and warm drinks. It’s a delicious and easy way to introduce a Swedish tradition to your friends. We’ve also got an endless number of bakeries in Exeter so support a small business and maybe try out a few new pastries.
7. Christmas Carol Karaoke – UK & Worldwide
Around the world, Christmas carolling is a beloved tradition, and while you may not be heading out to sing door-to-door, you can still get the same festive spirit in your dorm or flat. Organize a Christmas carol karaoke session with your friends! Many Christmas carols are available on YouTube with lyrics, so you can sing along to classics like “Jingle Bells,” “Silent Night,” or “Last Christmas.” It’s a fun way to bond, laugh, and embrace the holiday cheer while keeping it relaxed and social.
8. New Year's Eve “First Footer” – Scotland
In Scotland, one of the oldest traditions surrounding New Year’s Eve is the First Footer. This involves the first person to enter a home after midnight on New Year’s Eve bringing good luck for the coming year. While this is traditionally done with someone who has dark hair, you can adapt the practice with your flat mates by selecting a “first-footer” to bring a small gift or treat when you all celebrate together. It’s a simple and fun way to start the New Year on a positive note with friends and some good-natured superstition.
This list is only a few of the many international Christmas celebrations around the world. If there’s something you used to always do with your family be sure to share the love and celebration with the rest of your friends. As a student at the University of Exeter, you are part of a vibrant international community, and many societies host events that celebrate these diverse Christmas traditions. Be sure to check out what’s on offer this season and get involved! Happy holidays, and here’s to a joyful and multicultural Christmas in Exeter!