Unusual Christmas Traditions in the U.S.
When you think about Christmas, some of the things that may come to mind are trees, lights, Santa, holiday songs & gifts. Christmas traditions vary greatly not only in different cultures, but in different locations as well. You may not realize that not only is Christmas celebrated differently in other countries, but some traditions very in different parts of the United States.
Here are some of the most unusual Christmas traditions that take place in certain states in the U.S.
Elves In Alabama. You won’t just find elves at the North Pole helping Santa. In Mobile, Alabama hundreds of residents dress up each year for Elfapalooza in order to try to break the world record for having the most elves in one place. The record is currently held by a group in Bangkok, Thailand.
Lights From One Side Of The State To The Other In Arkansas. Arkansas residents really get into their Christmas lights. Each year they create the Trail of Holiday Lights where they connect lights along this giant trail of sorts, so that they span from one side of the state to the other.
The Mischievous Tomte Makes An Appearance In Delaware. On Christmas Eve in Delaware, children leave out milk for Tomte Spirits. According to a Swedish legend, Tomte were vengeful and mischievous creatures that guarded farmsteads. Today Tomte are said to leave gifts for good children.
Eating Lutefisk On Christmas In Minnesota. Not many people plan to have dried fish on Christmas, unless they are in Minnesota. In some households Minnesotans put dried fish in water that’s treated with lye, and let it soak for a few days. Then it’s prepared and served on Christmas day. This dish is pretty interesting, as it ends up having a consistency that’s similar to gelatin.
Santa Outfits And A Big Race In Nevada. They certainly do things differently in Nevada so why would Christmas traditions be any different? In Reno, participants of the Great Santa Dash dress up as Santa and run in this 5K race. Instead of water being handed out, cocoa and cookies are given to runners.
While on the subject of Santa, in Laguna Niguel California they hold a Santa surfing competition.
Red Pepper Wreaths In New Mexico. Wreaths aren’t just made out of evergreen branches in one state. In New Mexico, they use dried peppers as they are supposed to bring good luck and health.
Lobster Trap Tree In Rhode Island. Lobster fishing is big business in Rhode Island. Because of this, Block Island has plenty of traps to spare. Every year they use close to 200 lobster traps to make a giant Christmas tree.
In Maine, New England Seafood Chowder is a must on any Christmas menu!
Shrimp & Grits & Gumbo. In Mississippi you won’t find turkey or ham on the table – instead you will find shrimp & grits or a big pot of gumbo made with local shrimp, chicken and sausage.
German Christmas Market in Chicago. Inspired by the Christmas markets held throughout Germany which began in 1545, this market brings European charm to Chicago. The market runs for a month through December 24th, and features hundreds of vendors selling traditional crafts and foods from Germany, Austria, and local artisans.
