Discovering South Africa's Christmas Traditions: What is Christmas known as in South Africa?

Christmas is one of the biggest religious festivals celebrated around the world with different traditions and cultures. South Africa is a diverse country, with many languages and cultures that follow different Christmas traditions. So what do South Africans call Christmas?

In South Africa, Christmas is known as “Kersfees” which is a combination of Afrikaans and Dutch words that mean “Christian festival.” Christmas falls in the middle of summer in South Africa, which means it is a time for beach outings, barbeques, picnics, and outdoor celebrations.

Have you ever wondered why Christmas is different in South Africa? Well, South Africa has a unique history, and the country celebrates Christmas differently because of the different cultures and traditions that make up its people.

According to statistics, around 80% of South Africans are Christians, so Christmas is essential to the country's culture and celebrations. The majority of South African families come together to exchange gifts, feast on traditional Christmas meals, sing carols and attend church services over the festive period.

The Christmas period is also an important time for giving back to the community. Many South Africans donate to charity organizations or volunteer their time to help those in need. So, it is a season of love, kindness, and compassion.

Unlike many other countries that have snow during the Christmas season, South Africa has different climatic conditions which give it a unique flavor. South Africa’s warm weather provides a holiday feeling, which adds a vibrant atmosphere to Christmas unlike anything else in the world.

South Africans have different ways of celebrating Christmas. For example, in the Western Cape, the slaves were freed from slavery on December 1, so they celebrate “Feast of St. Nicholas” on that day as a holiday, while in Durban, thousands of people participate in a spectacular beachfront carol singing ceremony.

Traditional South African Christmas dishes include roasted meats, vegetables, and potatoes, “Malva Pudding” and “Koeksisters,” which are specific to South African cuisine. Also, South Africans decorate their homes with Christmas lights and ornaments as a way of creating festivity and cheer.

The festive period in South Africa starts a few days before Christmas with the lighting up of Christmas lights in every city and town, and the excitement builds until Christmas Day. The day after Christmas (Dec 26th) is known as “Boxing Day” in South Africa. Similar to other countries, it is a time for shopping and spending money after receiving Christmas gifts.

In conclusion, Christmas in South Africa is Kersfees, a time when people come together to exchange love and gifts, participate in religious services, consume delicious food and celebrate the family's arrival. It’s a time for outdoor activities, beach outings, picnics, and barbeques. Every country has unique Christmas traditions, and South Africa is no exception.

If you’d like to explore more about South African traditions or see how Christmas is celebrated in different parts of the world, keep reading our articles for more information!

"What Do South Africa Call Christmas" ~ bbaz

What Do South Africans Call Christmas?

Christmas time is always a special time of year, filled with joy, laughter, and festivities. It is a time when friends and family get together to share moments, exchange gifts, and indulge in their favorite holiday treats. However, in South Africa, Christmas is celebrated a little bit differently. So if you find yourself in sunny South Africa during Christmastime, here's what you can expect to see, eat, and experience.

The Weather

It's not really Christmas in South Africa without some gorgeous weather. As the country is in the southern hemisphere, December marks the start of summer, making Christmas day generally hot and sunny. People usually spend time outdoors while relaxing in the sun, going to the beach, and having outdoor barbeques, known locally as braais.

The Traditions

South African Christmas traditions are much like those of the Western world, but with a slight difference. Churches are filled with people attending services on Christmas day, and family gatherings are still an important part of the holiday season. Carols are sung, and children get excited about the arrival of Santa Claus, who is a popular figure in South African culture.

Something that makes Christmas unique in South Africa is the fact that it falls in the middle of the summer break, which means that families who have been away from each other for the better part of the year, use this time for reunions and family holidays. It is also common to visit the national parks or go to game reserves for wildlife safaris.

The Decorations

Just like in any other country, South Africans love decorating their homes and streets in preparation for the holiday season. While it may seem strange to be putting up decorations while sweating in the heat, people find ways to incorporate South Africa's nature into their Christmas ornamentation. Christmas trees are decorated with African-inspired decorations and woven baskets aligning the walls with lush green leaves of the banana plant.

The Food

The food is one of the most critical elements of any Christmas celebration, and in South Africa, it's no different. The traditional South African Christmas menu varies across ethnic groups, but some dishes cut across all. Braaied meat is a staple for many families during the festive season. For those who don't eat meat, there are plenty of meat-free options like sweet corn on the cob or baked potatoes.

Potjiekos is another popular dish, made in a cast-iron pot called a potjie. This stew usually contains beef, chicken or lamb, simmered slowly with vegetables and potatoes, creating an unbeatable flavor.

The Drinks

Drinks are an essential part of South African Christmas celebrations, with adults enjoying alcoholic beverages during festivities. Castle Lite and Carling Black Label are two of the most popular beers consumed by the locals. South African wine is also a favorite among people because of its quality and affordability, and sparkling wine is an ideal cooler for hot summer days.

Holiday Markets and Entertainments

Holiday markets are widespread in South Africa around Christmas. These markets create a festive atmosphere with lots of outdoor seating, entertainment, and food stalls. Carolers sing while walking around the market, adding to the joyous occasion.

Other entertainment options for the holiday season include live music events, outdoor screenings of movies, and concerts featuring local musicians that take place in restaurants and public places. These events provide a great way for people to come together and celebrate the spirit of the holidays.

In Conclusion

South Africans may celebrate Christmas differently from what is widely known in other countries, but it is no less festive. They have created their unique traditions that incorporate their love for nature and their culture into the season's celebrations. It is a beautiful time of the year that brings about a sense of togetherness and joy to all those who partake in it.

If you ever get a chance to visit South Africa in December, make sure to soak up the joyful atmosphere of the Christmas celebration. And remember, on Christmas day; there is nothing better than watching the sunset on a South African beach while sipping on a cold, refreshing drink.

What Do South Africa Call Christmas?

Introduction

Christmas is a religious and cultural occasion celebrated worldwide, and in South Africa, people celebrate it in their unique way. Many people have different traditions, customs and cultures that they follow during the festive period. In this article, we will explore what South Africans call Christmas and compare it with other parts of the world.

The pronunciation of Christmas in South Africa

In South Africa, Christmas is pronounced “Kerstfees” in Afrikaans and “uKhristi wesifazane” in isiZulu. These words translate to “Christian Festival.” People all over the country celebrate Christmas with different customs, but the essence of the event remains the same.

Christmas decor and tree traditions in South Africa

South Africans are big on their decorations, especially during Christmas time. They love dressing up their homes with lights, tinsel, and Christmas-themed ornaments. One of the most common traditions is setting up a Christmas tree. However, there is a difference in the type of trees used. In South Africa, fake trees are more popular than live ones as it is easier to maintain them in the hot weather.

Celebrating Christmas day with family

Christmas day is traditionally a day set aside for family gatherings in South Africa. People come together to share traditional meals such as roast lamb, turkey, or chicken. It is also a time for catching up with family members that one may not have seen throughout the year.

Boxing Day and St. Stephen's Day

On the day after Christmas, South Africans celebrate Boxing Day. This holiday started in the UK in the 19th century and was a day where employers would give presents (or boxes) to their workers. In modern times, it is now known as just another holiday where people relax and unwind.

Similarities with Christmas in western countries

South Africa, being a multi-racial country, has adopted many customs from different cultures. Therefore, many Western traditions associated with Christmas, such as Santa Claus, caroling and gift-giving, are also followed here. Though the climate is hot during December in South Africa, people still enjoy the winter-themed decorations and festivities related to Christmas.

Differences between Christmas in South Africa and the Western World

The main difference between Christmas in the Western world and South Africa is the weather. While people in the Northern Hemisphere experience snow and low temperatures, South Africans enjoy sunny skies and warm weather. Another difference is the food. In South Africa, they enjoy more of a BBQ-style meal with traditional dishes like Snoek, Bobotie and Melktert.

Christmas celebration in the townships

In the townships, Christmas is celebrated in a different way; there are community events, parties for children, and church services that go on throughout the day. Therefore, some people opt to celebrate their Christmas in the townships rather than staying at home.

Comparison Table

|Keywords | South Africa | Western World ||--------------|----------------|----------------||Food |BBQ style |Traditional ||Decorations |Fake trees |Real trees ||Weather |Warm and sunny |Cold and snowy ||Gift-giving |Santa Claus |Santa Claus ||Boxing Day |Relaxation |Shopping ||Community |Township events |N/A |

Final Thoughts

Christmas is a global occasion and is celebrated uniquely in every part of the world. As seen in this article, South Africans have their traditions and customs around Christmas. They share many similarities with the Western traditions, but the weather, food, and activities differ significantly. Nonetheless, the spirit of the holiday remains the same- spending time with family, sharing meals, and enjoying each other's company.

What Do South Africa Call Christmas?

Introduction

Christmas is one of the most beautiful times of the year, and it is celebrated in various ways around the world. In South Africa, Christmas is known as Kersfees and is celebrated with great enthusiasm, joy, family gatherings, and festivities.

The History of Christmas in South Africa

The history of Christmas in South Africa dates back to the 17th century when South Africa was colonized by the Dutch. It's said that the first Christmas celebrated in South Africa was in 1652 when Jan van Riebeeck, the founder of Cape Town, held a Christmas mass. Today, Christmas is celebrated by Christians and non-Christians alike and has become an important part of South African culture.

Decorations and Traditions

As with other parts of the world, Christmas decorations are a big deal in South Africa. The cities, towns, and homes are adorned with Christmas lights, trees, ornaments, and decorations. However, unlike other countries, where it may be snowing at Christmas time, South Africa is warm and sunny, so outdoor activities such as beach trips, barbeques, and picnics are popular during the festive season.A unique tradition in South Africa is the Christmas tradition of braaivleis, which is a social gathering for barbecuing. Families and friends gather together, grill meat and vegetables, and share traditional South African dishes such as potjiekos and biltong.

Food and Drinks

Food is one of the essential aspects of Christmas celebrations in South Africa. Traditional Christmas foods like roasts, turkeys, hams, and seafood are served alongside side dishes like potatoes, vegetables, and rice. For dessert, budget-friendly options such as malva pudding, trifle, and koeksisters (donut-like pastries) are popular.During the festive season, people also indulge in a variety of drinks like beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages like ginger beer, Rooibos tea, and soda.

Gift giving and Shopping

Just like in many other parts of the world, Christmas is a time for gift-giving in South Africa. People visit shopping centers, markets, local vendors to buy gifts, decorations, and food items. It's common for parents to buy gifts for their children, and friends and family exchange gifts as well.

Charity Work

The spirit of giving is also highlighted through various charity initiatives. Many individuals, groups, and organizations donate funds, clothing, food, and toys to the underprivileged or those in need. The aim is to share the joy and blessings of Christmas with those who are less fortunate.

Christmas Music and Entertainment

Music is an integral part of Christmas celebrations in South Africa. Festive songs like Silent Night, Joy To The World, and Oh Come All Ye Faithful are sung throughout the country during the holiday season at church services, parties, and gatherings.Additionally, various entertainment activities such as music concerts, comedy shows, and theater performances take place across the country to bring together friends and families and spread joy and laughter.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Christmas in South Africa is a blend of traditions and cultures. While it's a Christian holiday, it's also a time for many South Africans to come together to celebrate, exchange gifts, enjoy delicious food, and spend quality time with loved ones. It's a time for joy, happiness, and spreading compassion and goodwill to others.

What Do South Africa Call Christmas?

South Africa is a culturally diverse country with many languages and traditional beliefs. Hence, Christmas in South Africa varies from one area to another and depends on the region's culture and community. Although there is not an official name for Christmas in South Africa, the holiday season is celebrated nationwide with various traditions that make it unique to the African continent.

The Christmas season in South Africa typically begins in December, and it is the time for fun, festivities, social gathering, and eating of sumptuous meals. People decorate their homes, and the streets are lined with colorful lights, trees, and festive decorations to create a warm welcoming atmosphere for visitors and locals alike.

In most parts of South Africa, Christmas day is considered a public holiday, and people do not go to work or conduct any business. Instead, they enjoy their leisure time with family and friends and participate in different activities that reflect their traditions and culture.

One of the unique aspects of Christmas in South Africa is the hot summer weather. There are no white Christmases in South Africa, but rather sunny days, green trees, and blooming flowers. Therefore, many people prefer spending their time outdoors, having barbeques, swimming, and going to the beach.

In some areas of South Africa, especially rural areas, the celebration of Christmas involves providing food and gifts to the less fortunate. In this way, the act of sharing love and giving to others is emphasized, and the essence of unity and compassion is upheld.

For many Christians in South Africa, Christmas represents a significant spiritual period, and they celebrate by attending church services. Many churches hold midnight Christmas Eve masses, which are attended by believers all over the country.

Also, in some parts of South Africa, caroling and singing are also popular activities during the Christmas season. People go from house to house, singing carols and spreading cheer and goodwill to their neighbors.

With its rich cultural diversity, the food of Christmas in South Africa is a highlight of the festive season. Christmas day is typically celebrated with a substantial feast that includes various dishes such as roasted turkey, chicken, lamb, or beef with vegetables, rice, and salads. For desserts, the menu may include Christmas cakes and puddings, melktert, trifle, and koeksisters, which are traditional South African sweets.

In conclusion, Christmas in South Africa is characterized by an array of vibrant celebrations and diverse traditions. Despite the differences in cultures and languages, the holiday season brings people together to share love, unity, and happiness. The people of South Africa may not have an official name for the Christmas season, but they undoubtedly have unique ways of celebrating it that reflect their heritage and values.

We hope this article shed some light on what South Africa calls Christmas and the various traditions they celebrate. From our team at [Your Blog Name Here], we hope you had a good read and wish you and your loved ones a merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

What Do South Africa Call Christmas?

1. Do South Africans Celebrate Christmas?

Yes, South Africans celebrate Christmas every year on December 25th. This is a public holiday in the country and is a time when families come together to celebrate and exchange gifts.

2. What Is Christmas Called In South Africa?

Christmas is called Kersfees in South Africa, which is derived from the Dutch word for Christmas. The word is pronounced KIRS-fay-s in Afrikaans, the most widely spoken language in the country after English.

3. How Do South Africans Celebrate Christmas?

South Africans celebrate Christmas in much the same way as people in other countries. This includes decorating homes and streets with lights and ornaments, exchanging presents, and enjoying festive feasts with family and friends.

Some popular Christmas traditions in South Africa include:

• Caroling
• Attending church services
• Braaing (barbecuing) outdoors
• Eating traditional foods such as turkey, gammon, and mince pies.

4. Are There Any Unique Christmas Traditions In South Africa?

Yes, there are some unique Christmas traditions in South Africa that are not seen in other countries. One of these is the tradition of the Christmas braai, where families and friends gather to barbecue meat and vegetables outside. Another tradition is the lighting of Christmas lights on December 16th, which is a public holiday known as the Day of Reconciliation.

Some other unique South African Christmas traditions include:

• Swimming and sunbathing on the beaches
• Listening to traditional African Christmas songs
• Playing games such as Kalahari Scrabble and Marble Jenga
• Watching movies and television specials

In conclusion, South Africans celebrate Christmas just like people in other parts of the world. They have their own unique traditions and customs that reflect their diverse cultures and history.