Christmas is a wonderful time of the year but if you’re an international student studying in the UK the traditions around the celebration can seem a little strange. Embracing the British traditions of Christmas is a great way to learn more about the culture of the country, try new things with friends and sample some delicious food.
Deck the halls
You’ll notice shops and towns suddenly light up with Christmas lights and decorations, from huge Christmas trees adorned with baubles and tinsel to simple fairy lights strung around windows, they all help create a festive feel. You can get involved and decorate your accommodation too. Most homes have at least a Christmas tree covered in plenty of lights and decorations and generally topped with a star or angel. But if you really want to embrace the Christmas spirit you can string up lights and add other decorations around your home.
Sample Christmas treats
Food is a big part of the Christmas celebration. On Christmas day families across the UK will sit down for a traditional dinner of roast turkey and all the trimmings followed up with Christmas pudding. If you attend a Christmas dinner expect to pull a cracker with someone you’re enjoying your meal with before donning a paper hat and reading out a bad joke. Expect lots of other Christmas treats to start popping up from November too, including mince pies, mulled wine, chocolate oranges and candy canes.
Try something new
It’s not all about food and flashing decorations at Christmas, there’s plenty of activities you can get involved with in the run up to the big celebration that are sure to guarantee a great day or evening. As Christmas approaches you’ll notice Christmas markets springing up around the country selling festive items, gifts and food and a day wondering around one of the many markets is sure to delight. Some of the larger Christmas markets have additional entertainment too, like an ice rink or live music.
Taking a trip to see a pantomime is another excellent way to get into the festive spirit. These theatre performances include songs, dancing and slapstick comedy and are typically based on fairy tales. The audience all get involved too, singing along and shouting out to the cast – find a production near your university campus for a great night with friends.
While there are plenty of traditions associated with Christmas in the UK, the most important one is spending it with people you care about. If you’re remaining in the UK over the Christmas period rather than heading home, connect with other international students or those that will be away from their families to celebrate the holiday. You can take part in the typical Christmas traditions, like eating turkey and pulling crackers, and even add in some of your own to make a unique day that’s fun for all.
