4-H & Holiday Traditions Around the World
Why Cultural Holiday Traditions Matter in 4-H Programs
Did you know that a version of 4-H has been introduced in nearly 80 countries around the world? While 4-H clubs help youth learn, grow, and build community, the holidays offer a special glimpse into the cultures where they live. Here’s a snapshot of five countries with 4-H presence and how they celebrate the winter holidays with their own unique twists.
Holiday Traditions Around the World: A 4-H Cultural Tour
In the United States, the holiday season is filled with familiar sights and sounds: twinkling lights, decorated
trees, stockings hung by the fireplace, and the aroma of festive treats like cookies and pies. Families gather to share meals, exchange gifts, and celebrate with traditions that have been passed down for generations. These celebrations provide a snapshot of how culture, community, and creativity come together — setting the stage for exploring the unique holiday traditions of other countries around the world.
In Mexico, the holiday season is vibrant and full of tradition. During Las Posadas, December 16th - 24th, children reenact Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, singing from house to house. Homes are decorated with lanterns and evergreens, and families enjoy festive foods like tamales and ponche. Christmas Eve brings Midnight Mass, fireworks, piñatas, and nativity displays, while Día de los Reyes on January 6th celebrates the Three Kings with gifts and the traditional Rosca de Reyes cake, keeping family and community at the center of the season.
In The Netherlands, the holiday season revolves around Sinterklaas, celebrated on December 5th. Children 
place shoes or small wooden clogs by the fireplace or door, which Sinterklaas fills with candy, treats, and small gifts. Festivities include parades, songs, and treats like speculaas cookies and marzipan. Families also gather to enjoy hearty meals and exchange presents, making it a season full of joy, anticipation, and togetherness.
In Japan, the New Year or Oshogatsu, is the main holiday celebration. Homes are decorated with kadomatsu (pine and bamboo arrangements) and shimekazari (sacred ropes) to welcome good fortune. Families enjoy special foods like osechi ryori (a variety of traditional dishes) and mochi rice cakes, and children may receive small gifts. Many people visit shrines for hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year, reflecting a mix of celebration, reflection, and hope for the year ahead.
In Australia, Christmas falls during the summer, so traditions often have a sunny twist. Families celebrate with beach barbecues, picnics, and outdoor activities. Homes are decorated with Christmas trees and lights, and Santa may even arrive in a surfboard or on a boat! Traditional meals include seafood, cold meats, and festive desserts like pavlova topped with fresh fruit. Carols by Candlelight events, fireworks, and other community gatherings help bring neighbors together in celebration.
Connecting Youth and Culture Through International 4-H Experiences
No matter where you are, holiday traditions bring communities together in different ways. And through 4-H, youth everywhere are learning, sharing, and giving back — keeping the spirit of the season alive all year long.
Cyla Gardner 4-H Youth Development Agent, December 2025