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indy100
Daisy Maldonado

We asked an American to judge 8 beloved UK Christmas traditions and this was her verdict

And here more than 60 years later in 2020

(Picture: PA)

With the holidays come a variety of traditions.

How or what one chooses to celebrate is the result of a variety of reasons, including one’s location and upbringing.

The annual festivities look vastly different in households across the world. And there are some Christmas traditions in the UK that are unheard of and just plain confusing for those in the Unites States.

Here are 8 UK Christmas traditions that would baffle most Americans, along with the verdict of Indy100's Daisy Maldonado.

Putting a silver coin in the Christmas Pudding

Christmas pudding, which is also known as figgy pudding or plum pudding to some, is a holiday dish served in the UK. It's essentially a boiled cake that is made with dried fruit, spaces, and soaked in alcohol that is enjoyed after Christmas dinner.

The interesting detail about this tradition is that a silver coin is typically placed within the pudding as it’s said to bring luck to the person who finds it.

Daisy’s verdict: While as a Mexican American my family celebrates something similar on the Three Kings' Day with the Rosca de Reyes, I’ve always found this tradition to be a major nerve-wracking choke hazard.

Sure, you might have some good luck headed your way if you have the coin, but truly, at what cost?!

Watching the Queen’s Speech

Starting out with King George V’s first radio broadcast in 1932 on the BBC’s Empire Service, the royal Christmas message has become an annual spectacle watched by millions every year.

The Queen’s Christmas message features Her Majesty discussing current issues as well as tidbits on what Christmas means to her.

Daisy’s verdict: Perhaps it’s because I’m American, but I can’t possibly imagine gathering with my family to watch a speech from any US president on Christmas Day. There’s nothing jolly and fun about that—at least in my opinion.

Boxing Day

A holiday limited to the British Commonwealth, Boxing Day is celebrated the day after Christmas Day.

The name historically derives from when the rich used to box up gifts to give to the poor. This was traditionally a day servants were off-duty and would receive a special Christmas box gifted from their masters. They would then go home and give Christmas box to their families.

Though it originated as a holiday to give gifts to the poor, nowadays it is primarily known as a shopping and sporting events day.

Daisy’s verdict: So is this basically just Black Friday but in December? I, for one, would love to have this become an American tradition. What is Joe Biden’s plan to make Boxing Day an American holiday?

Pulling Christmas crackers

Another tradition that dates back to Victorian times, Christmas crackers are cardboard tubes wrapped in colorful paper that are pulled apart by two people, make a loud cracking sound and revealing a small toy, riddle or joke, and a tissue-paper crown.

After opening the crackers, people will also wear the paper crowns throughout the Christmas meal.

Daisy’s verdict: By the looks of the name I thought this was going to be a snack of some sort, so I am pleasantly surprised.

This one sounds particularly fun. It’s short, sweet, and simple—what’s not to like?! I’m motioning to participate in this festivity with my family this upcoming Christmas, and I won’t be taking no for an answer! Plus, it would make such a stellar stocking stuffer!

Going to the pantomime

A Christmas pantomime, which is occasionally referred to as a ‘panto,’ pantomime, which are eccentric musical comedies based on famous fairy tales. British people will watch the performance throughout the holiday season and will bring along the whole family as it is a family-friendly show.

The theater performances involves plenty of slapstick humor and the opportunity for audience participation, making it an engaging watch for all.

Pantos also are known for their hilarious pop cultural references and the actors dressed in drag.

Daisy’s verdict: I love this one! Many Americans I know go and watch a Broadway show on Christmas or even go to the movies. This sounds like a much more festive version and now I have to go to a pantomime.

Christmas commercials

Every year, UK retailers such as John Lewis, Sainsbury, and Tesco, release their Christmas advertisements. These aren’t your usual typical commercials though as they're typically short films that share a heartwarming story.

John Lewis' ads are probably the most popular of them all. Some people even count down to the day when the adverts are released.

Daisy’s verdict: This reminds me of the craze surrounding Super Bowl commercials. I think they’re sweet and enjoy watching them. In the past, some popular UK Christmas commercials have gone viral and they’re usually really lovely. Can’t say I would count down to their release though. But hey, no judgment here.

"Christmas No. 1" single.

The tradition of the British "Christmas No. 1" single has been largely celebrated for over half a century. Beginning all the way back in 1952, the top song on the British singles chart has been a coveted spot every Christmas since. Christmas number ones are singles that are top of the UK Singles Chart in the week in which Christmas Day falls. The songs don’t have to necessarily be Christmas songs but they can be.

Some of the “Christmas No. 1” alumni includes artists such as The Beatles and Ed Sheeran. The most recent Christmas number one single is "Don't Stop Me Eatin'" by LadBaby.

As of yet, The Beatles who currently hold the title of most Christmas No. 1s of all time with four.

Daisy’s verdict: TBH this is probably the most confusing tradition. To my understanding, this is basically like the Billboard Hits 100 of the week, except there is particular importance surrounding the week of Christmas. Don’t quite understand why this is so celebrated unless you mix in a good bet with your family on who you think will take the spot.

Brandy and carrots left for Santa

On Christmas Eve, British children will typically leave out mince pies, Brandy for Santa Claus and carrot for the reindeer.

Daisy’s verdict: I always loved the innocence that comes with leaving milk and cookies out for Santa to enjoy as a kid. Maybe it’s just me, but leaving out liquor for St. Nick takes away from the childish pure fun of it all. I always took particular joy in serving the milk and cookies by myself, so can’t imagine my parents allowing me to serve brandy!

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