In a festive deep dive, the popular Australian travel podcast The Pod Well Travelled has turned its focus to the wonderfully diverse ways the world celebrates Christmas. Hosts Penny Thomas and Megan French unpack a sleigh-load of unique customs in their special holiday episode, released on Wednesday, 24 December 2025.
A World of Festive Customs
The episode serves as a virtual tour of global yuletide cheer. It transports listeners from the heart of Europe to the bustling cities of Asia, highlighting how culture shapes celebration. The hosts provide engaging commentary, making each tradition accessible and fascinating for their audience.
German Charm and Japanese Innovation
The journey begins in Germany, renowned for its enchanting Christmas markets. These festive hubs are described as sensory wonderlands, filled with the aroma of mulled wine and sizzling bratwurst, and the visual delight of intricate, handcrafted ornaments. The tradition is presented as a cornerstone of European holiday spirit.
In a striking contrast, the podcast then highlights Japan's unexpected Christmas ritual: a festive meal from KFC. The hosts explain how this now-ingrained tradition originated not from ancient custom, but from a remarkably successful marketing campaign in the 1970s. It stands as a powerful example of how modern commerce can create lasting cultural practices.
More Than Just a Holiday Special
This exploration does more than just list interesting facts. It underscores the universal human desire for community, joy, and ritual during the holiday season, regardless of location. By comparing the old-world charm of German markets with Japan's adopted fast-food feast, the episode celebrates both the deep-rooted and the delightfully novel aspects of Christmas celebrations across the globe.
Listeners are left with a broader appreciation for the holiday and a treasure trove of conversational tidbits for their own Christmas gatherings. The episode, titled "Christmas Traditions from Around the Globe," is available for streaming, offering a perfect dose of holiday curiosity and warmth.
