From pooping logs to naked santas: Bizarre Christmas traditions around the world

As Christmas approaches, many countries put their own unique twist on the holiday season. While Santa and his reindeer are the stars in most places, several countries feature traditions that might surprise you. Here are some of the most unusual Christmas customs from around the world:
Naked Santas in San Francisco
San Francisco’s annual SantaCon takes a different approach to holiday tradition: many participants dress up as Santa – or not at all. The event has become famous for participants who join in the fun in the nude, adding a unique twist to the Christmas festivities.
Pooping log in Spain
In Catalonia, families celebrate with the “Tió de Nadal,” or the “pooping log.” The tradition involves a wooden log with a painted face and red hat, which is “fed” treats throughout December. On Christmas Eve, children gather to beat the log with sticks to make it “poop” out candies and small gifts.

The Yule cat in Iceland
Iceland’s Yule Cat (Jólakötturinn) is a large feline creature that, according to legend, hunts down people who haven’t processed their wool by Christmas. Those who haven’t completed the task risk being eaten by the cat. Most Icelanders, however, make sure to get their wool ready in time to avoid this fate.

Befana the Witch in Italy
In Italy, the holiday season extends until January 5 with the arrival of Befana, a kindly witch who delivers gifts on Epiphany Eve. Legend has it that Befana missed the birth of Jesus, and to make up for it, she brings treats to children, along with coal for the naughty ones.
Mari Lwyd in Wales
In Wales, the Mari Lwyd tradition features a horse skull decorated with ribbons and mounted on a pole. The Mari Lwyd visits homes, challenging homeowners to a rhyming duel. If the homeowner wins, they’re invited inside for food and drink.
KFC Christmas in Japan
In Japan, fried chicken, particularly from KFC, is the go-to Christmas meal. This tradition began in the 1970s thanks to a successful marketing campaign, and it’s now so popular that many families book their KFC Christmas meal weeks in advance.
Roller skating to mass in Venezuela
In Caracas, Venezuela, it’s common for families to roller-skate to Christmas Mass. This tradition helps avoid traffic and adds some festive fun to the holiday celebrations.