EUnited in celebration: A festive journey across member countries
European holiday traditions are shaped by both religious and cultural influences, offering a fascinating glimpse into the diverse backgrounds of our students and faculty within EUniWell. This blog post takes a closer look at one distinct holiday custom from each EUniWell member country, inviting you to learn and appreciate the richness of these unique cultural practices.
- University of Birmingham, United Kingdom - Boxing Day
On the day after Christmas (26 December), our members from the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom celebrate Boxing Day - a day of relaxation and enjoyment. Boxing Day has a rich history, dating back to the Middle Ages in Britain. Traditionally, it was a day when employers would give their servants and tradespeople boxes containing gifts or money as a token of appreciation for their year-round services. However, in contemporary times, Boxing Day has transformed into a holiday for the general public. It is a day when families come together, often engaging in outdoor activities like walks, hikes, or watching exciting football matches.
- University of Cologne & University of Konstanz, Germany - Silvester
Silvester, or German New Year’s Eve, is celebrated by our members from the University of Cologne and the University of Konstanz. As the clock approaches midnight on 31 December, the sky comes alive with fireworks, symbolising the transition into the new year. One beloved tradition that adds a unique touch to Silvester is watching “Dinner for One”. This short, black-and-white comedy sketch has become a staple of German New Year’s Eve television programming and is watched by millions across Germany, making it an integral part of the Silvester experience.
- University of Florence, Italy - La Befana
In Italy, La Befana on 6 January marks the enchanting end to the holiday season. This beloved tradition features a kind-hearted witch who brings gifts, delighting children and showcasing Italy’s love for storytelling and celebration. Families come together to share stories, to enjoy seasonal treats, and to celebrate. Our members from the University of Florence join in the celebration of La Befana, further enriching the EUniWell cultural tapestry.
- INALCO & Nantes Université, France - Réveillon
Many students and staff members at our member institutions Inalco and Nantes Université take part in the French Réveillon tradition on both Christmas and New Year’s Eve. These special evenings centering on a long dinner are a quintessential part of French culture, emphasising family, friends, and festive meals that often continue late into the night. The Réveillon embodies core French values like togetherness, the celebration of life, and enjoying every moment.
- Linnaeus University, Sweden - Saint Lucia’s Day
Together with all of Sweden, Linnaeus University members celebrate Saint Lucia’s Day on 13 December, a cherished tradition focussing on light during the darkest days of winter. Young people dressed in white gowns lead a candlelit procession, symbolising hope and peace. This tradition brings families and communities together, adding warmth and light to the winter season. It is not just a beautiful sight but also a symbol of unity and resilience in the face of the Scandinavian cold and darkness during this season.
- University of Murcia & University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain - The Three Kings’ Day
In Spain, the culmination of the festive season arrives with The Three Kings’ Day on 6 January. This day is especially exciting for children, as they anticipate gifts bestowed by the Three Wise Men. The festivities extend beyond individual households, uniting families and communities in lively parades and seasonal feasts. Within our EUniWell Alliance, the Universities of Murcia and Santiago de Compostela remain closed on this day, as it is also a national holiday in Spain. The celebration of The Three Kings’ Day forms an integral part of Spanish culture, reflecting the spirit of togetherness, joy, and the deep-rooted values of giving and sharing.
- Semmelweis University, Hungary - Christmas Markets
If you are a member of Semmelweis University, you are sure to visit one of Hungary’s Christmas markets during this time of year, which stand out as delightful features of the Hungarian holiday season. Whether you are visiting one in Budapest itself or in smaller towns, these markets are vibrant spaces offering a wide range of traditional crafts, seasonal foods, and a captivating festive atmosphere. These Christmas markets are a place where friends and families come together, immersing themselves in the heartwarming spirit of the season.
- Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Ukraine - Saint Nicholas Day
Students and staff from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv in Ukraine are celebrating Saint Nicholas Day on 6 December. This day carries great significance as it embodies the spirit of generosity and gift-giving, with families coming together to honour Saint Nicholas who symbolises these values. In Ukraine, the celebration is not only about exchanging gifts but also about fostering a sense of togetherness and strengthening the bonds of friendship and family.
It is important to recognise that within each of these countries, specific regions or ethnicities often have their own distinct customs and traditions, adding further to the diversity of our EUniWell holiday celebrations. Watch the video featuring our EUniWell Student Board members to learn more about their personal traditions firsthand, including even traditions from Sri Lanka and Canada. By exploring these customs of our EUniWell members, we gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural dimensions within our community. Join us in celebrating this cultural mosaic and contribute to the richness of our EUniWell Alliance, by leaving a comment about your own traditions below the video!
Stay in touch & up-to-date!
Follow us on our social media channels:
Twitter
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook
And subscribe to our EUniWell newsletter for regular highlights and save-the-dates to upcoming EUniWell events delivered straight to your inbox:
