7 foreign traditions worth traveling for this holiday season

From Genna in Ethiopia to Yi Peng in Thailand, these traditions create picture-perfect moments worth traveling for. Photo credit: Unsplash.

Planning a last-minute holiday trip doesn't have to be stressful. It's the perfect opportunity to embrace spontaneity and explore unique cultural celebrations abroad. From releasing lanterns in Thailand to enjoying festive barbecues in Argentina, the world offers diverse traditions that make the holiday season unforgettable.

Here are some of the best countries to visit this holiday season for those seeking something extraordinary. These destinations offer a chance to actively participate in customs that blend joy, history and community.

Thailand - Lanterns, reflection and joy

In Chiang Mai, Thailand, the holiday season is a time of light and introspection. While the famed Yi Peng Lantern Festival typically takes place in November, the spirit of this event lingers well into December, especially during New Year's Eve. Visitors can join smaller, community-organized lantern releases, where floating lights illuminate the night sky, symbolizing the release of past misfortunes and the welcoming of good fortune.

For a more profound cultural experience, take a walk and reflect along the Monk's Trail in Chiang Mai, a path leading to the stunning Wat Pha Lat temple and continuing to the sacred Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple. Hike the trail early in the morning, just after sunrise, to catch a glimpse of the monks traveling to and from the temples after they collect alms.

This serene hike, set against the backdrop of lush forests, is an opportunity to embrace the thoughtful essence of the holidays. Many locals and visitors use this time to visit temples, engage in meditation and participate in communal acts of kindness, making Chiang Mai one of the best places to connect with the spiritual side of the season.

Spain - Three Kings' Day and a festive finale

In Spain, the holiday season reaches its crescendo with "Día de los Reyes," or Three Kings' Day, held every year on Jan. 6. This celebration commemorates the arrival of the Magi to Bethlehem and is marked by grand parades that sweep through cities and towns. The "Cabalgata de Reyes," or Three Kings Parade, is the most anticipated event, featuring elaborate floats, lively music and actors portraying the Three Wise Men. Visitors can join the crowds as the Wise Men toss candy and gifts to children lining the streets.

On the morning of Jan. 6, Spaniards gather with family and friends to enjoy "roscón de reyes," a sweet, ring-shaped cake adorned with candied fruits. Hidden inside the cake are small surprises - one lucky diner finds a figurine of a king and gets crowned for the day, while another discovers a bean and is playfully designated to buy next year's cake.

Throughout the season, nativity scenes, or "Belénes," take center stage, with many towns hosting life-size displays and competitions for the most intricate setups. Tourists can also visit Andalusian cities like Seville, where flamenco-infused holiday celebrations bring a distinctly Spanish energy to the festivities. Spain's unique blend of pageantry, community and culinary delights makes it a standout destination for holiday travel.

Argentina - Fireworks, feasts and folklore

For a completely different holiday vibe, head to Argentina, where Christmas is celebrated in the heat of summer. This unique twist transforms the season into a lively outdoor affair. One of the most cherished traditions is the Christmas Eve "asado," or barbecue. Tourists are often welcome to join these feasts, where grilled meats, fresh salads and glasses of Malbec wine take center stage.

At midnight, the celebrations reach their peak with spectacular fireworks that light up the skies over cities like Buenos Aires. As you immerse yourself in the festivities, you'll discover fun facts about Argentina's Christmas culture, like their love for "pan dulce," a sweet bread similar to Italian panettone, and their tradition of opening gifts after the fireworks.

For a dose of cultural flair, watch or participate in "pesebre viviente" known as living nativity scenes, which blend Catholic traditions with folkloric dance and music. These performances are often accompanied by local celebrations that welcome visitors with open arms.

Germany - Christmas markets in action

No list of holiday traditions is complete without a mention of Germany's iconic Christmas markets. Cities like Nuremberg host historic markets that attract visitors from around the globe. These bustling squares are filled with festive lights, the aroma of roasted nuts and mulled wine or gluhwein and stalls selling handcrafted gifts.

Tourists can join candle-lit processions, participate in caroling events or try decorating cookies. Many markets also offer Advent concerts, providing an immersive musical experience that captures the spirit of the season. Germany's markets aren't just a place to shop - they're a gateway to holiday magic and community.

Iceland - Mischief and merriment with the Yule Lads

Iceland's quirky holiday traditions center around the 13 Yule Lads - mischievous characters from Icelandic folklore who bring both gifts and playful pranks during the 13 days leading up to Christmas. Visitors can interact with the Yule Lads at local holiday markets and storytelling events.

Many guesthouses offer themed activities, such as guided Yule Lad tours or evenings filled with folklore and Icelandic treats. To fully immerse yourself in this whimsical tradition, leave a shoe by the window at night - you might wake up to a small gift if you've been good or a humorous punishment if you've been naughty. Iceland's blend of humor and warmth makes it one of the best countries to visit for a holiday experience unlike any other.

Ethiopia - Genna's festive feast and celebration

Ethiopia's Christmas, known as Genna, is celebrated on Jan. 7, offering a unique post-holiday getaway. Centered on Orthodox Christian traditions, Genna features vibrant early-morning church services and communal feasts.

Visitors are welcome to join these celebrations, which include "doro wat," or spiced chicken stew, served with injera, a sourdough flatbread. In addition to the culinary experience, tourists can watch or participate in the ceremonial Gena stick game, an ancient sport reminiscent of field hockey. The warmth and hospitality of Ethiopia's communities make Genna a genuinely immersive and enriching experience.

Japan - A modern twist with KFC and illuminations

Christmas in Japan is more secular and quirky, centered around two unique traditions. Tourists can join the locals in the wildly popular custom of eating KFC for Christmas dinner, a tradition that began as a clever marketing campaign in the 1970s. Cities like Tokyo and Osaka also dazzle with elaborate light displays or illuminations. Some of the most famous spots include Tokyo Midtown's Starlight Garden and Nabana no Sato's Winter Illumination near Nagoya, which boasts one of the largest light displays in the country.

Joining holiday celebrations abroad

The holiday season offers a unique opportunity to explore the world through its most cherished traditions. Before jumping on that plane to celebrate the holidays abroad, it's essential to research their holiday celebrations to understand what's accepted or not as a foreigner and how your participation is welcomed.

Understand how to respect local customs and familiarize yourself with their traditions and etiquette to ensure a meaningful and respectful experience. Lastly, embrace the unexpected; whether it's tasting a new dish, joining a procession or learning a local dance, the magic lies in stepping outside your comfort zone.

As you plan your next adventure, consider these unique experiences that blend culture, history and celebration. This holiday season, make your journey as memorable as the destination, embracing the shared joy that unites us all.

Norbert Figueroa of GloboTreks is an architect and travel writer on a mission to visit all 195 nations recognized by the United Nations, and beyond. He shares his adventures and passion for travel, architecture and culture on his blog and social media.