It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Yes, that’s right, as if you need reminding we’re on the countdown to Christmas. This means a calendar packed full of events, present shopping and festive feasting. Whether you are hosting a party or simply looking for new, unexpected ways to celebrate, we’re here to help you switch things up for a Christmas you’ll never forget.
To seek inspiration we spoke with our good friends at Anges De Sucre bakery in London, to discover their favourite global traditions. This research then goes on to inspire their cake decorations (if you haven’t checked them out yet we seriously suggest you head to Anges De Sucre) and the flavours that go into their show-stopping cakes. So here are the team’s most exciting finds from a classic Irish boozy drink to an unexpected apple gift!
Forgive us for making a sweeping stereotype statement, but the Irish sure do love their Guinness. In the emerald isle it’s customary to leave mince pies and a bottle of Guinness out for Santa Claus that way he can sneak a cheeky sip before he heads on to the next house, and the rest of the world! Another Christmas tradition involves leaving a tall, thick candle burning in the largest window to signify the light of Christmas Eve.
Finnish Friends
Did you know that the home of Santa Claus has a full theme park dedicated to the jolly bearded native. He’s presumed to live in the Korvatunturi, or Lapland, north of the Arctic Circle, so they say! Another important Christmas figure in Finland is Joulupukki, which actually translates to “Christmas Goat.” This cheeky goat is actually feared as he asks for gifts without giving any in return, not an entirely likeable character!
Chinese Apples
Christmas is widely celebrated in China, particularly in the cities as a festive time to share with those close to you. No religion in particular is celebrated. One particular popular tradition is the giving of apples as a gift! There is no actual explanation for this or as to why this is so popular, however one likely explanation is that Christmas Eve in Chinese is Ping An Ye which is similar to the Chinese word for apple, Ping Guo. Why not? A festive apple bake is particularly tasty this time of year!
Japanese Lovers
Staying in Asia, let’s look at Japanese celebrations. Christmas here is seen more as a time for spreading cheer, joining together and celebrating rather than celebrating a religious holiday. With a focus on couples spending time together, it actually bears a closer resemblance to Valentine’s day. Every Christmas Eve couples exchange gifts and enjoy activities like strolling around looking at Christmas lights and eating a romantic meal. So we’re thinking, why not surprise your lover with a cake this Christmas and make your own tradition of celebrating each other!
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Clare
Hi, I'm Clare (Emmy's Mummy). A former Nanny and Mother of 2 - Emmy (born February 2010) and Harry (born October 2012). We are Essex based and share our adventures and misadventures of a busy crazy life.
