Top Winter Holidays Kids Love Around the World in 2025

The winter season brings magic, warmth, and unforgettable moments—especially for children. As snow falls and festive lights twinkle, families worldwide embrace unique winter holidays that blend tradition, joy, and adventure. In 2025, kids can explore diverse customs from Scandinavia to North America to Asia, creating memories that last a lifetime.

Exploring Global Winter Festivities Kids Will Adore

Christmas Around the World: More Than Candy Canes

Christmas remains a beloved winter holiday, but its celebration varies dramatically. In Norway, children leave shoes by the fireplace for ‘Julenissen’—a mischievous old man who delivers small gifts and treats. In Germany, families decorate ‘Christkindlesmarkt’ stalls with handmade ornaments and enjoy gingerbread cookies shaped like stars. In the Philippines, where Christmas spans nine days, kids participate in colorful ‘Simbang Gabi’ processions and enjoy ‘bibingka’—a rice cake baked under hot stones. These traditions offer rich cultural learning and spark curiosity.

Hanukkah: Lights, Stories, and Family Connection

Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, brings joy through candle lighting, spinning the dreidel, and sharing fried foods like latkes and sufganiyot. In 2025, many families incorporate interactive storytelling, teaching children about the miracle of the oil and the resilience behind the festival. Outdoor menorah lighting ceremonies often include community gatherings, encouraging kids to feel part of a larger tradition. This holiday nurtures values of hope and perseverance while fostering family bonding.

Kwanzaa: Celebrating Heritage and Values

Originating in the United States, Kwanzaa offers a meaningful winter celebration for African American families and beyond. Focused on the seven principles—Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), and others—each day includes storytelling, traditional drumming, and preparing Swahili-inspired meals. Kids create handmade kinara candles and participate in community feasts, learning about African heritage and the importance of cultural pride. In 2025, schools and neighborhoods host Kwanzaa workshops, making this festival an engaging way to explore identity and unity.

Top Destinations for Winter Fun with Kids

For families seeking adventure, Iceland’s icy landscapes spark imagination with aurora borealis views and glacier hikes. Finland’s Santa Village in Rovaniemi remains a top choice, where kids meet Santa in a snow-covered wonderland. Japan’s Hoshizora (Star Festival) in Hokkaido offers serene snow festivals with lanterns and light displays, perfect for mindful winter exploration. These destinations combine safety, beauty, and immersive cultural experiences tailored to young travelers.

Practical Travel Tips for Winter Holidays with Kids

Traveling in winter requires preparation. Pack thermal layers, moisture-wicking clothing, and portable hand warmers. Book accommodations with family-friendly amenities and plan indoor activities during extreme cold. Use apps that highlight kid-friendly attractions and real-time weather to adjust plans smoothly. Always keep emergency contacts handy and prioritize rest to avoid fatigue. Small, thoughtful touches—like a favorite snack or a travel journal—turn long journeys into cherished moments.

Why These Holidays Matter for Childhood Development

Winter holidays do more than celebrate dates—they shape children’s understanding of global diversity, empathy, and joy. By engaging with traditions from around the world, kids build cultural awareness and emotional intelligence. These experiences nurture curiosity, creativity, and a deeper connection to humanity, laying a foundation for lifelong learning and kindness.

This winter, inspire your child’s imagination and values by exploring these joyful, educational celebrations. Whether decorating a menorah, watching a snowy nativity play, or lighting Kwanzaa candles, each moment builds lasting memories and meaningful growth.

Start planning your family’s winter adventure today—visit cultural websites, read global children’s books, and discover the magic waiting beyond your doorstep.