Christmas Traditions in Singapore and France

How Children around the world celebrate Christmas

Christmas Decorations in Singapore - Harbourfront

Laura Lim from Singapore tells us how she celebrates Christmas with her family:

"Many associate Christmas with Santa Claus, reindeer, or snow, but for me, as a Christian, Christmas is more than that. It is also about celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

Some values of Christmas are love and kindness. People give one another gifts of love during this season, thinking about each other and practicing empathy. In my opinion, if everyone would behave this way all year long, everyday would be Christmas! This tradition inspires and gives us hope for a future that everyone can be kind to one another.

I do not live in a country that experience four seasons, or snows every Christmas. In fact, where I live, it is the same season all year round. I live in Southeast Asia, more specifically, on sunny island Singapore where temperature ranges between 30 to 33 degrees [Celsius] [86°F to 91°F] annually.

The celebration of Christmas in Singapore is rather muted. In my neighbourhood, everyone puts up simple decorations and the celebration lasts for about a week. Shopping centres play popular Christmas tunes and families gather together to eat dinner and exchange presents. And that is it. Christmas is over. Even though it seems really short and you have to wait one whole year for it, Christmas is still my favourite tradition as it reminds us of how blessed we are, and how we could be a blessing to others.

Last year, during Christmas, my family and I did something a little different. Instead of staying home to celebrate Christmas, like we normally do, we staged our Christmas celebration at the Capital of Christmas in Strasbourg, France.

It was immensely different as compared to Singapore. There were festive Christmas markets to go to, hot mulberry wine, smell of roasted chestnuts, and lots of decorations up on the streets! It was an enchanting experience and it provided me with unforgettable memories as to how Christmas is celebrated in Strasbourg.

The trip also made me realised that no matter the location, Christmas is a time where people demonstrate love and express similar hopes for a better future. In conclusion, Christmas is my favourite tradition because it is a season where everyone comes together, conveying love and strengthening bonds.

But most importantly, it serves as a reminder for all of us to treat one another with kindness and love, that is the future I hope to see!"

Thank you, Laura for sharing your insights about your favourite festival! Laura, 11 years, lives in Singapore and this is an excerpt of her entry in the 2025 Kids World Travel Guide writing competition. Well done!