2 British Christmas Traditions To Enliven Your Holiday Get-Together
2 British Christmas Traditions To Enliven Your Holiday Get-Together
By Abby Fulmar — December 24, 2024
Christmas is a magical time for people all over the world. From the ‘Yule Goat’ of Sweden to yam exchanges in Martinique, various cultures have invented unique ways to celebrate and embrace the holiday season. Over the past few months, I had the amazing opportunity to study abroad in London. While living as a local for a short time, I experienced the special ways British culture celebrates Christmas and instantly felt the need to tell my friends and family about a few traditions they would surely enjoy. If you are looking for ways to liven up a Christmas party, besides the predictable Secret Santa and charades, consider adding these British traditions to your Christmas agenda.
Christmas Crackers
Surprisingly, “Christmas crackers” are not a quick, crunchy snack with Santa’s face stamped on them. Christmas crackers are cylindrical tubes wrapped in bright paper that, when pulled apart, pop with a mini explosion of confetti, jokes, and tiny toys. They can be filled with everything from paper crowns to cheesy jokes, and sometimes even a small novelty gift or holiday props. If you want good luck for the new year, pull the cracker apart with a friend, and whoever gets the larger side (and the gifts) can expect greatness to head their way. Or simply pull it apart yourself to ensure you claim the prizes waiting inside. Christmas crackers are a beloved tradition, bringing a touch of mystery and fun to the Christmas dinner table.
Mince Pies
While this uniquely British tradition is not an activity, mince pies can be a tasty way to make your Christmas menu stand out. Mince pies are quintessentially British, packed with cozy spices used in British households for centuries. These bite-sized pastries are flaky on the outside and contain a sweet, fragrant filling made from dried fruits, suet, sugar, and a little brandy or rum. Even though they are commonly referred to as mincemeat pies, there is no ground meat included in modern recipes — just a mix of raisins, currants, apples, and candied peel seasoned with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. These tiny pastries embody warmth and comfort, making them a perfect centerpiece for a holiday meal or get-together.
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