Many people look forward to the Christmas season—a time for family reunions, delicious food, and gifts. From a business perspective, the holidays are also a great opportunity to strengthen bonds with employees, clients, and partners. But did you know that Christmas traditions vary greatly across Europe? It’s important to be mindful of these differences, especially if your employees, clients, and partners come from different countries. And maybe it will inspire you to try something new!
Giving christmas gifts: differences across europe
Giving Christmas gifts is a tradition found in many countries. For instance, in the United Kingdom, many employers opt for traditional Christmas gifts filled with luxury food and drinks. In Germany and France, receiving a Christmas gifts isn’t as common; employers often choose to give a year-end bonus instead. In Scandinavia, the focus is more on family and social celebrations rather than giving gifts. Learn more about this in the article on giving corporate gifts and other cultures.
Julbord: traditional Swedish christmas buffet with colleagues
While some countries go all in with Christmas decorations, Sweden keeps it subtle with candles and Christmas stars. On the workplace, the ‘Julbord’ is a recurring Christmas tradition: a traditional Christmas buffet shared among colleagues. The festive meal often includes traditional Swedish dishes such as pickled herring, gravad lax (marinated salmon), köttbullar (meatballs), ham, Janssons frestelse (a potato and anchovy casserole), and various breads and cheeses, finishing with sweet treats like lussekatter (saffron buns) and glögg (mulled wine).
Christmas saunas as a team outing in Finland
In Finland, the Christmas sauna is a special tradition that companies often organize as a team outing. Visiting the sauna is deeply rooted in Finnish culture, and during Christmas, it takes on an extra festive element. Colleagues come together to relax in a traditional sauna, which not only provides physical relaxation but also strengthens team bonds. This tradition offers a moment of rest and reflection amidst the busy holiday season. In terms of Christmas decorations at the workplace, Finland often goes big with Christmas trees and straw figures like the ‘himmeli’ or star-shaped hanging decorations.
Christmas markets and Christmas parties in Germany
Christmas markets in Germany are a well-known phenomenon throughout Europe. In Germany, it is a tradition for companies to organize a company outing to one of these atmospheric markets during the Christmas season. Here, they enjoy the wonderful scents, wooden stalls, and music together. And don’t forget the Glühwein (mulled wine) and Lebkuchen (a type of gingerbread). These are the perfect ingredients for a German Christmas gift. Alternatively, companies in Germany might organize their own Christmas party with stalls and treats to end the work year in a festive and relaxed manner.
Secret Santa & Christmas Jumper Day in the United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, Secret Santa and Christmas Jumper Day are two popular workplace traditions during the Christmas season. In Secret Santa, colleagues anonymously draw the name of another colleague and buy a small gift, usually within a set budget. The exchange of these gifts happens during a Christmas lunch or party, and it is often a surprise who gave a gift to whom. Additionally, many companies celebrate Christmas Jumper Day, where employees wear their most eye-catching and festive Christmas sweaters to the office. This day not only provides fun and humor in the workplace but is often linked to charitable causes, with employees raising money for charity.
Extended Christmas meals in Spain & Italy
In both Spain and Italy, Christmas meals are a grand affair. Companies often organize festive lunches or dinners with colleagues featuring traditional dishes. In Spain, for instance, they serve tapas, jamón serrano, seafood, and turrón (nougat). In Italy, the focus is on elaborate meals with dishes like pasta, meat courses such as arrosto di tacchino (roast turkey), and sweets like panettone and pandoro. It’s more than just a lunch or dinner; it’s a social event where colleagues come together to celebrate the year and enjoy each other’s company.
Christmas lunch & extensive Christmas gifts in France
In France, food also plays a significant role in Christmas traditions. Many company restaurants and cafeterias offer a special Christmas menu during the holiday season. This menu often features a refined selection of typical French festive dishes, such as foie gras, oysters, and a traditional Bûche de Noël (Yule log) for dessert. This way, employees can enjoy culinary delights even during a workday. Additionally, Christmas gifts in France are often richly filled with food and wine. Bon appétit!
The importance of sustainability
Sustainability is a growing trend around Christmas in various European countries. For instance, companies in Scandinavia are increasingly opting for sustainable Christmas decorations made from natural materials like wood, straw, and recycled fabrics. Germany is placing more emphasis on sustainable Christmas markets with energy-efficient lighting and reducing plastic use. Many countries also use local and seasonal products for Christmas meals. Want to further incorporate sustainability into your Christmas period? Check out our article with 5 tips for a sustainable Christmas for businesses.
As you can see, each country has its own customs and traditions, but they all center around enjoying time together and ending the year on a high note. Looking for a suitable year-end gift? IGO Promo operates in 13 countries across Europe and is happy to help you find the perfect gift that will appeal to everyone.