The Global Magic of Winter Traditions

On 21st December, the shortest day of the year, on a fine winter afternoon, women in a Chinese household gather to prepare a feast. Along with loud chatter, the house is filled with the fresh aroma of glutinous rice balls and round white dumplings, which they are lovingly preparing for the guests who are about to arrive in a few hours. On the night of Dongzhi, the most auspicious day of the Chinese calendar, a shift in cosmic energy is taking place. Yin, which signifies darkness, cold, stillness and inward energy is slowly fading on the longest and darkest night of the year. Yang, which signifies light, warmth, growth and outward energy is gradually rising, representing a turning point in the cosmic balance.

Miles away from China, on the same day, another family in Iran is travelling to the home of the eldest person in their family to celebrate the festival of Shab-e-yalda. They’re carrying cut watermelons, peeled pomegranates and a basket of citrus fruits with them. When they reach their destination, they’re welcomed with hugs and kisses, by their other family members, to a home which is adorned in red coloured decor. The family now plans to have a hearty meal around a candlelit table (referred to as Yalda) and stay up until midnight to recite the poems, stories, folk tales and anecdotes by elderly members of the family.

Around the same time, week-long rituals are taking place in Israel and other parts of the world, amongst Jewish communities. Jews around the world are lighting menorahs, while narrating the story of the oil miracle to their children. Elders are telling children about the time when the Maccabees reclaimed the Temple of Jerusalem to find only a day’s supply of oil to light the Temple’s menorah. To everyone’s surprise, it lasted eight days until more oil could be prepared. This is why Hanukkah lasts eight nights, and why lighting candles is at the heart of the celebration. And while this story is being narrated, a huge tray of fried foods is being served. Potato pancakes and jelly doughnuts are the first items to go off the table.

A few weeks later, on new year’s eve, the skies of Scotland are illuminated with fireworks, and the streets are filled with the sounds of church bells and people holding bright torchlights. People have joined hands to make a circle and sing the famous song – “Auld Lang Syne” to honour friendships, love and memories. Meanwhile, Scottish homes are celebrating the cherished tradition of first-footing, where dark-haired men are carrying symbolic gifts like coal (for warmth), whiskey (for good cheer) and shortbreads or black buns (for prosperity) to influence their household’s luck. Inside, the home is filled with the aroma of steak pies, shortbreads, and haggis. It’s the festival of Hogmanay and the Scottish are all set to welcome the new year and get on to beautiful new beginnings.

Farther from Scotland, across the Atlantic Ocean, Guatemalans are cleaning their homes during the day to prepare for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. In the evening, they plan to gather around their neighbourhoods for the burning of the devil-shaped puppet, representing everything people want to get rid of spiritually. La Quema del Diablo is finally here!

It’s the month of December, and something unbelievable is happening around the world. But what exactly is happening? And why?

Remember when Ned Stark said “Winter is Coming”? He was warning his sons of the harsh and unpredictable times that lay ahead. Much like GOT, winters around the world bring long nights, darkness, and cold. They’re gloomy and isolated, and can shake even the strongest spirits unless we find warmth – in each other, in small rituals, and in the promise that light always returns.

For thousands of years, across many civilizations and despite traditions looking very different, people have developed winter rituals for the same core reasons – to bring some light in the darkness, to strengthen communities during the cruel weather, to enjoy the stored harvests and to lift spirits during a difficult season. Winter hence, is a season that calls people together to celebrate, to endure, to reflect, and to hope. 

So if you’re a traveller seeking to truly understand cultures, winter is your cue to pack your bags and embark on a festive journey.