Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. In most Christian countries, Christmas is celebrated traditionally between 24 December and 27 December. Furthermore, in almost all countries that maintain Christian customs, a sumptuous feast and the giving of presents to one another are at the centre of the celebrations.

In some countries, however, over the years, classical Christmas rituals have been mixed with old folk customs or cultural characteristics. This has not only led to the emergence of some interesting customs, but sometimes also to different time periods that are considered "Christmas". While in Scandinavia goblins often play an important role, in Central Europe the Christ Child is the central figure, and in Eastern Europe the secular character Grandfather Frost brings the presents.