December Holidays of All Different Cultures: Foods and Snacks to Try

Christmas: celebrating the birth of Jesus

1. Eggnog: originally from the UK, this drink is a staple in many American homes around Christmas

2. Fruitcake: either loved or hated, this dense loaf-like cake is a very traditional Christmastime dessert

Hanukkah: the Jewish festival of light

1. Latkes: a staple Hanukkah food, often referred to as “potato pancakes.” There are TONS of different recipes, toppings, and preferences when it comes to latkes!

2. Sufganiyot: mainly eaten in Israel, but these classic, fluffy, jelly-filled donuts have become increasingly popular in Jewish homes all over the world… and they’re delicious

Kwanzaa: a week of celebration of African-American culture and community

1. Sweet potato pie: there are tons of dishes typical for Kwanzaa celebrations, but sweet potato pie is arguably a non-negotiable

2. Jollof rice: a dish originating from Nigeria and Ghana, this is a very common main served for a Kwanzaa celebration

Ōmisoka: the Japanese holiday composed of traditions leading up to the New Year

1. Toshikoshi soba: a bowl of soba noodles traditionally eaten to ring in the New Year, possibly to symbolize a true break between the old and the new