Global Christmas Celebrations: From Waterskiing Santas to Candlelit Masses

Thu Dec 25 2025 12:38:41 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Explore the diverse and festive Christmas traditions around the world, showcasing unique celebrations such as waterskiing Santas in the US and Christmas Eve services in numerous countries.

Christmas is celebrated in various ways around the globe, from the waterskiing Santas in Alexandria, Virginia, to nocturnal candle-lit masses in Ukraine, and vibrant festive gatherings in iconic locations like Bethlehem and the Vatican. This article highlights the joyful spirit of Christmas celebrations worldwide, showcasing diverse cultural customs and vibrant images of holiday cheer.

From skiing Santas in the US and Mass with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican to giant cuts of meat being thrown into crowds in London, Christmas celebrations around the world are in full swing.

Worshippers in Ukraine, China, and Pakistan gathered for Christmas Eve services at their local churches. While most Christians mark Christmas on December 25, many Orthodox Christians do not celebrate until January 7.

Here are some of the best images of the holiday cheer around the world. In Alexandria, Virginia, crowds delight in the annual Waterskiing Santa event, while at St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV leads a festive Mass. In Bethlehem, visitors gather around the large Christmas tree marking the birthplace of Jesus Christ.

In other parts of the world, candlelight services bring communities together, as seen in Kyiv and Beijing, and Christmas traditions unfold uniquely in various cultures, from midnight Masses in Karachi to cheerful gatherings on Bondi Beach in Sydney.

This global celebration of Christmas showcases not just a religious holiday but also a mingling of traditions that underline the joy and spirit of the season.