Hanukkah

This Jewish festival meaning “dedication” in Hebrew is an eight-night celebration that commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the Maccabean Revolt. It begins on the 25th of Kislev on the Hebrew calendar, usually in Nov. or Dec.. Celebrations include meals with traditional foods like Latkes, or crispy potato pancakes, the lighting of the menorah, and eight nights of games and gifts. 

Kwanzaa

Kwanzaa, which is observed from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, is a secular, predominantly African-American holiday that celebrates African culture and community. The name “Kwanzaa” derives from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza”, which translates to “first fruits”. With activities focused around Nguzo Saba (The Seven Principles), they celebrate traits such as collective work, creativity, and purpose. Communities join together with feasts, music, dance, and a continued commitment to cultural values. 

Diwali

Otherwise known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is a holiday of Hindu origin and is widely celebrated throughout India. The five-day event takes place on the 15th of the month of Kartik in the Hindu calendar, which falls in Oct. or Nov.. People who celebrate light clay lamps, said to represent the destruction of anything negative in one’s life and celebrate the goddess Lakshmi, who brings wealth and good fortune. 

Yule

Celebrated around the Winter Solstice, Yule is observed historically by Germanic people, in modern times primarily by Neo-Pagans on Dec. 21–22 in the Northern Hemisphere and Jun. 20–21 in the Southern Hemisphere. Celebrations historically included feasting and merriment, while now they focus on rebirth, light, renewal, and reflection, using symbols like the Yule log, evergreens, and mistletoe. 

Christmas

This winter celebration on Dec. 25 honors the birth of Jesus Christ, blending religious significance with traditions like decorating trees, exchanging gifts, and sharing meals with family and friends. Atheists have also been celebrating this holiday for non-religious purposes as well. Many choose to also celebrate Christmas on Dec. 24 as well. 

Soyal

Soyal, also referred to as Soyaluna, is a Hopi example of the various winter solstice observances that exist worldwide. The Native American Hopi tribe live in modern day Arizona. The Dec. 22 Soyal ceremony is one of the most significant Hopi traditions. To prepare, the community ties feathers and pinyon needles to fragments of cotton strings and exchanges these among family and friends. 

There are many more winter holidays celebrated around the world, these are just some that are celebrated in the month of Dec. or Nov. Whether you’re observing these holidays, recognizing an entirely different one, or simply not celebrating anything at all, hopefully these summaries captured your interest.