Christmas traditions: embracing the magic of the season

While Europe and North America expect cold weather and snowfall for Christmas, New Zealanders enjoy the summer vacations by escaping to the great outdoors or going to city festivals. It sounds crazy, but many travelers consider the Christmas season the best time to live in New Zealand for a season. Its traditions and the magic of the moment make it truly beautiful to share this time of year in the oceanic country. Since the end of November, Kiwis have been getting into the Christmas spirit. On the last Friday of the month, department stores launch offers in the local version of Black Friday. This day coincides with the Santa Parade in the main cities of New Zealand. On these days you will see the streets crowded with people enjoying the parade of Santa and his elves, buying gifts for Christmas and taking home the traditional pine tree.

Christmas Eve Dinner

On the night of December 24, the traditional dinner with family and close friends takes place. Christmas morning is dedicated to opening presents. At noon, people go to the parks or to the beaches to spend the whole day. Dinner begins with baked potatoes, a salad or peas and bacon. This is followed by typical New Zealand Christmas dishes. You may be served a piece of roast turkey, stuffed with vegetables or nuts. The other option is glazed or smoked ham.

Christmas markets

If you love shopping and bargains, you can't miss at least one of the Christmas markets that are set up all over New Zealand. There you can buy fruit, vegetables, food and handicrafts. You will also find a wide variety of second-hand items. One of the most famous is the Farmers Market in Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island. The products of local farmers and ranchers are regularly traded here every Saturday. In December, seasonal items and themed events are added.

Christmas in the Park

Between the end of November and the first half of January, Christmas in the Park arrives in New Zealand. This is the name of the series of concerts and shows taking place in major cities across the country. They are free and outdoors. This event is undoubtedly one of the attractions to see in Auckland, the largest city in the country. More than 250,000 people gather there to enjoy international music, eat, drink and dance until the body can take it.

Christmas parade

One of the Christmas events in New Zealand that will leave you amazed is the Christmas parade. We already know that it is common in almost every country in the northern hemisphere. But, imagine Santa crossing the streets in his sleigh under the summer sun and his elves following him in sandals. This holiday occurs between the last Friday of November and December 1.

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