Holidays and Festivities You Don't Want to Miss in December!

December isn't just about Christmas and New Year's – there's a plethora of diverse festivities to explore! In our blog, discover unique ways to celebrate the holiday season and ring in the new year. From cultural traditions to lesser-known gems, there's something for every taste. Don't miss out on the rich tapestry of December celebrations; keep reading to uncover the hidden gems that might become your new favorites!

Chichibu Night Festival - Japan

The Chichibu Night festival, held annually in Chichibu, Japan is a mesmerizing cultural spectacle that calls all travelers to experience the enchanting blend of tradition and celebration. Known as one of Japan’s most beautiful festivals, it takes place against the stunning backdrop of the Chichibu Shrine. 👹 The festival features intricately made floats filled with lanterns, pulled through the town by lively participants. As dusk falls, the floats are illuminated, creating a magical and otherworldly ambiance. The vibrant procession, traditional music and the grandeur of the floats make the Chichibu night festival a must-see event. 🔅 Attending this festival is not only a visual feast, but an immersion into the heart of Japanese cultural heritage, making it an unforgettable and culturally enriching experience, located only 90 minutes outside of Tokyo! 🇯🇵

Rise Festival - Les Deux Alpes, France

The Rise Festival in Les Deux Alpes in France promises a week filled with music-at-altitude. This ski festival is sure to get you out of your comfortable snowy cabin and into the slopes and atmosphere of the partying people. ☃️ It doesn’t matter if you’ve been skiing since you were born or are only starting out, the slopes of Les Deux Alpes has something for everyone, including Europe’s largest skiable glacier. ⛷ After a rewarding day on the slopes, you can end the night with a party against the gorgeous backdrop of the French Alps with a music lineup like no other. Could there be a better combination than this! If skiing down the mountain isn’t enough for some thrill seeker Les Deux also offers a variety of adrenaline filled activities like paragliding and mountain biking. 🪂 What are you waiting for? Secure your tickets for this awesome adventure! 

Las posadas - México

Las Posadas is a deeply-rooted tradition in Mexico, celebrated between the 16th and the 24th of December. The festivities reenact Joseph and Mary’s search for shelter in Bethlehem. Each night, adults and kids alike dress up to lead “Mary and Joseph” through the streets, going from house to house seeking “posada” or lodging and singing Christmas songs. At each location participants engage in a call-and-response, representing the pleading of shelter. The celebration is a rich tapestry of Mexican culture, combining religious importance with lively music, colorful decorations and the warmth of communal spirit. Any visitor of Mexico would be lucky to experience this celebration and feel the inclusive atmosphere, and the fusion of faith, tradition and community. 🇲🇽🪅

Carnavalcázar - Alcázar de San Juan, Spain

The carnival of Alcazar de San Juan is a lively and colorful celebration that invites visitors to experience the vibrant traditions of this Spanish town. 🇪🇸 With lively parades, music and elaborate costumes, the carnival blends local folklore with modern entertainment, creating an atmosphere of pure joy. The festivities showcase traditional dance performances and intricately designed parade floats, providing a feast for all senses. The town comes alive with energy as locals and visitors engage in the revelry, fostering a sense of unity and shared celebration. For those seeking authentic and festive experience, the carnival offers a short but immersive journey into the heart of Spanish merriment and tradition. 💃🏼 Don’t miss your chance of getting to know the lovely town of San Juan; find a job abroad in Spain and immerse yourself into the culture everyday! ✈️

Time Square Ball Drop - New York City, USA

The ball drop on Times Square in New York City might just be the most iconic new year’s celebration there is and it attracts millions of people every year. 🎊🪩 As the final 60 seconds of the year tick away, a glittering crystal ball descends on top of One Times Square, marking the beginning of the new year along with a dazzling display of fireworks and confetti. The atmosphere is electric, with live music and a sense of anticipation you can almost touch in the air. Visiting the NYC ball drop is an experience like no other, offering a chance to be a part of a monumental tradition that symbolizes hope, unity and a collective excitement of a fresh start. Standing in the midst of the crowd, witnessing the spectacle in person, is a once-in-a lifetime experience that captures the heart and spirit of global celebration. 🎆

Discovering new traditions and festivities is an enriching experience as it is. Don’t miss out on it by staying in your comfort zone, rather venture out and start exploring. Check out our jobs abroad and start planning your next cultural immersion! 🌎🚀