The Variations of Joy Over the Festive Period

Although some regularities with exciting times do exist during the festive period, it is worth taking a glance at others. With vast differences allowing for much happiness over the celebratory season, one may find the activities rather bizarre yet fascinating.

Commencing at the very far north in Iceland, this snowy climate is appropriate, as displayed on many advertising boards and Christmas cards. However, of greater significance is the Monstrous Jule Cat that lurks in the snow. This tradition sparks shrieks of excitement if seen, yet it remains uncaught, as per folklore.

Poland, still quite northerly, arouses excitement with specially made webs crafted from ornamental paper, wire, and glitter, adorning homes with intricate designs.

Created from straw, the Jule Goat of Scandinavia, alongside Thor, the Norse God, brings much enthusiasm and joy to the region. This age-old tradition continues to inspire festive celebrations.

In complete contrast, about twenty-five families in Japan gather together to enjoy a KFC meal—a perfect example of the magic of superb advertising creating a unique festive tradition.

As for a less gracious culinary experience, Spain’s ‘La Tomatina’ sees thousands gather together to hurl ripe tomatoes at one another! Fortunately, this offers some respite from the running of the bulls, which many now view as a cruel and unnecessary performance in today’s world.

In great contrast, churches in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) offer a more spiritual venue, where music and hymns take center stage, celebrating the essence of the season.

Surrounded by some of Russia’s magnificent cultural spirals, the people celebrate upon the vision of the first star. In the first forty days before Christmas, Santa Claus remains absent, a tradition rooted in the restrictions of the previous Stalinist regime.

Brazilians, on the other hand, host a great festival honoring Jemanja, the goddess of the sea. Participants dress in white and offer flowers to the waters in a breathtaking display of cultural reverence.

At this point, readers should not feel that South Africa has been overlooked. On the contrary, Table Mountain’s majestic illumination only occurs on very special occasions. With thousands of visitors at the V&A Waterfront, musical performances, and magnificent firework displays, South Africa undoubtedly becomes a vibrant hub of celebration during the festive season.

The team at Matsimela thanks their readers for their continued support and wishes everyone a year ahead filled with all things plentiful and good.