Traveling during Christmas is one of the best ways to experience how different cultures mark the season. These cultures come together, blending religious faith, winter folklore and local climate. For instance, families in Italy celebrate La Vigilia (Christmas Eve) with a traditional meatless fish feast, followed by panettone and then wait for La Befana, a friendly Christmas witch. Mexico and parts of Latin America center on Las Posadas processions, piñatas and community gatherings. Japan, however, treats Christmas as a commercial and a romantic holiday rather than a traditional one. Central Europe feels closest to the classic winter Christmas, with wooden markets in Germany, Austria and Czechia, mulled wine, roasted chestnuts and outdoor evening gatherings. Christmas in New Zealand and Australia takes place during the warm summer season, which includes beach barbeques, outdoor concerts and summer heat instead of snow. Continue to read for more details.