Christmas is a time for gathering with friends and family, and there’s no better way to create a special atmosphere than by enjoying tea together. Around the world, people celebrate Christmas in their own unique ways – from decorating trees to attending midnight mass - but something that binds them all together is the love of tea. Here, we explore how different cultures around the world have adopted tea as part of their seasonal celebrations.
In Japan, members of a household gather around the kotatsu table (a type of low wooden table covered by heavy blankets or quilts) and enjoy o-cha no iri-kai (tea ceremony). After everyone has taken part in making Japanese green tea, they share stories and eat traditional Japanese Christmas cake.
In the UK, some families will have Afternoon Tea on Christmas Day – a tradition that dates back to the 19th Century. This typically consists of a selection of sweet and savoury foods served alongside tea or coffee – although tea is often preferred!
Families in Mexico celebrate with Rosca de Reyes (a circular shaped bun) which is enjoyed on the 6th January (the 12th day after Christmas). The traditional accompaniment to this treat is champurrado – a hot chocolate made from masa (corn dough) and flavored with spices and chocolate. This is usually served alongside a pot of Mexican herbal tea for those who don’t like the taste of hot chocolate.
In India, Christmas is celebrated with a traditional sweet treat called plum cake. This is usually accompanied by masala chai - a spiced tea made with milk and aromatic spices like cardamom, cinnamon and ginger – all of which are perfect for warming up on cold winter days.
In Russia, families will often enjoy afternoon tea with traditional Russian cakes and pastries such as pryaniki (honey-dipped gingerbread cookies). The traditional accompaniment is strong black tea known as zavarka – usually served with a teaspoon of jam.
In Sri Lanka, Christmas is celebrated with a traditional sweet bread called Kithul Pani Pol or Treacle Bread. This is usually served alongside the national drink – Ceylon black tea – which has a bright, bold flavour that’s perfect for any special occasion.
So this Christmas, why not embrace the tradition of tea-drinking around the world? Get together with family and friends, put on the kettle and enjoy some time together sipping one of our festive blends. Cheers!
No matter how you choose to celebrate Christmas in your own culture, adding tea is sure to make it even more special! So why not try one of our festive flavours this year and create your own unique traditions? Cheers!Happy Holidays