Most of you are familiar with American, Canadian and English Christmas customs, which are largely the same, including Santa bringing presents that sit below a lit up tree. But have you ever wondered just how Christmas is celebrated in China, or in Finland? Whether you’re just interested in learning more about other cultures or want to incorporate some new traditions into your holiday celebrations, this article is filled with all you need to know about international Christmases.
大多數人對英美加這些國家如何過圣誕都很熟悉。它們的圣誕習俗大同小異,包括圣誕老人在點亮的圣誕樹下放上禮物。但是你曾想過中國、芬蘭這些國家是如何慶祝圣誕的嗎?不管你是有興趣了解其他文化,還是想為自己的圣誕慶祝添點新花樣,這篇文章將給你所有“必知”的不同國家的圣誕知識。
Poland
波蘭
For Poles, Christmas Eve is a night of magic when animals are said to talk and people have the power to predict the future. It’s a time for families to gather and reconcile any differences, and to remember loved ones who have gone before them.
對于波蘭人來說,平安夜是充滿魔力的一夜。據說動物在這一夜可以與人說話,而人有預測未來的能力。家人們會在平安夜團聚一堂,調和矛盾,并懷念過世的親人。
Wigilia (vee-GEEL-yah), which literally means "vigil," or waiting for the birth of Baby Jesus, is considered more important than Christmas Day itself.
對波蘭人來說,“守夜”或“等待嬰孩耶穌的誕生”(Wigilia)比圣誕節(jié)那一天更重要。
Wigilia is a meatless meal because, years ago, Roman Catholics fasted for the four weeks of Advent, including Christmas Eve. In the past there were thirteen main dishes (representing the Apostles and Christ), but, these days, many families have replaced this tradition with a twelve-fruit compote for dessert.
“守夜”晚餐是素食,因為多年前,羅馬天主教徒在降臨節(jié)四周一直到平安夜都齋戒。過去晚餐有13道主菜(代表耶穌和他的使徒)。但是如今許多家庭轉而選擇12樣水果的果盤甜點。
The foods are to represent the four corners of the earth -- mushrooms from the forest, grain from the fields, fruit from the orchards, and fish from the lakes and sea.
食物代表地球的天涯海角——蘑菇來自于森林,谷物來自于田地,水果來自于果園,而魚來自于湖海。
Meals vary from family to family but usually include a special soup followed by many elegant fish preparations, vegetables, and pierogi.
每家的飯菜都不同,但通常都包括一種特制的湯,還有許多精致的魚肉餐、蔬菜和半圓形小酥餅。