Unusual Ways Christmas is Celebrated in the UK

When we think of Christmas in the UK, traditional images of twinkling lights, mulled wine, and mince pies spring to mind. 

But beyond these classic festivities, the UK boasts a variety of quirky and unusual ways to celebrate the season. 

From centuries-old customs to more modern eccentricities, here are some of the most unusual Christmas traditions found across the UK.

1. The Pudding Race in Covent Garden

London’s Covent Garden hosts the Great Christmas Pudding Race, a charity event that is as chaotic as it is entertaining. Participants don festive fancy dress and navigate an obstacle course while balancing a Christmas pudding on a plate. The event raises money for cancer research and perfectly embodies the British love of mixing charity with humour.

2. Wassailing

An ancient tradition rooted in Anglo-Saxon culture, wassailing is still practised in some rural parts of England, particularly in cider-producing regions like Somerset. Wassailing involves visiting orchards, singing to the apple trees, and toasting them with cider to ensure a good harvest in the coming year. It's a fascinating mix of pagan rituals and festive cheer.

3. Burning the Clocks in Brighton

Brighton’s winter solstice celebration, Burning the Clocks, is a strikingly alternative take on Christmas festivities. Residents create paper and willow lanterns, parade them through the streets, and finally burn them in a spectacular beach bonfire. This unique event symbolises letting go of the year gone by and embracing the new one.

4. Boxing Day Dip

Taking an icy plunge into freezing waters on Boxing Day is a daring tradition observed in coastal towns across the UK. From Tenby in Wales to Exmouth in Devon, brave souls—often in fancy dress—dash into the chilly sea. These dips typically raise funds for local charities and offer a bracing cure for Christmas indulgence.

5. Bizarre Christmas Foods

While the Christmas dinner table is usually adorned with classics like turkey and pigs in blankets, some regions add their own unique twists. In Cornwall, stargazy pie—a fish pie with pilchard heads poking through the crust—is a quirky festive treat linked to local legend. Meanwhile, in Scotland, the dessert table often features clootie dumpling, a boiled pudding spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg.

In parts of Wales Goose Blood Tart is considered quite the delicacy. Made in farming communities using all the blood removed from geese that were slaughtered for Christmas. It's a rich, fruity tart. 

6. Christmas Eve Ghost Stories

Telling ghost stories on Christmas Eve is a less-common tradition that harks back to Victorian times, popularised by authors like Charles Dickens (A Christmas Carol being the most famous example). While not widely practised today, some families still gather to share spooky tales by candlelight, adding an eerie twist to the festive season.

7. Pantomime Animals and Chaos

The UK’s love affair with pantomimes reaches its peak at Christmas. These theatrical performances blend slapstick humour, audience participation, and men dressing as dames. But one of the quirkiest aspects is the pantomime horse (or cow)—a costume usually shared by two actors. It's not uncommon for these comedic animals to steal the show with their antics.

8. First-Footing on Christmas Night

In parts of Scotland, the tradition of first-footing—usually associated with Hogmanay—sometimes begins on Christmas night. The first person to cross a home's threshold brings symbolic gifts such as coal, shortbread, or whisky, to ensure good fortune for the year ahead.

9. The Robin Postmen

The tradition of sending Christmas cards was popularised in Victorian Britain, but did you know that the red-uniformed postmen of the era inspired the association of robins with Christmas? Some communities still celebrate this link by decorating with robin-themed ornaments and sending cards featuring the cheerful bird.

10. Christmas Tree Throwing Competitions

In parts of the UK, such as Keele in Staffordshire, post-Christmas festivities include a tree-throwing competition. Competitors test their strength by hurling their used Christmas trees as far as possible, a quirky and environmentally friendly way to dispose of festive foliage.

A Nation of Quirks and Traditions

From wassailing in the orchards to plunging into icy seas, the UK’s Christmas traditions reflect its diverse history, humour, and love of eccentricity. Whether you're a participant or a curious observer, these unusual customs add a unique sparkle to the festive season, proving that there’s no single way to celebrate Christmas in Britain.

So, this year, why not explore one of these quirky traditions? You might just discover a new way to embrace the festive spirit!

Happy Christmas, and may your celebrations be as joyful and unusual as the traditions themselves!

Looking for a unique Christmas tipple for the whisky fan in your life? Then you should raise a Glass to the English Whisky Festival 2024 in Birmingham!

Calling all whisky lovers! Mark your calendar for a standout event in the heart of Birmingham this November. 

The English Whisky Festival is coming to The Bond in Digbeth on Saturday, 23 November 2024, for the third year, and it promises to be an unforgettable experience for both seasoned whisky enthusiasts and newcomers alike. 

And those who are seeking out a Chirstmas gift with a difference.

What to Expect

The English Whisky Festival is renowned for celebrating the thriving whisky scene in England, showcasing exceptional home-grown talent and bringing together an impressive line-up of distillers and industry experts. 

his year, it’s all about the rich diversity of English whiskies, featuring established names and new distilleries breaking onto the scene. With its scenic canalside location, The Bond in Digbeth is the perfect setting, combining industrial charm with modern appeal.

Tasting Sessions and Masterclasses

One of the festival’s highlights is the opportunity to sample an array of whiskies from across England. With many distilleries offering limited-edition releases and exclusive tastings, this is your chance to sip and savour expressions not typically found in shops. Alongside traditional single malts, look out for creative blends and innovative finishes that showcase the versatility and artistry of English whisky-making.

The festival also offers masterclasses led by experts, giving you a deep dive into the art of whisky-making. Whether you're interested in the science of ageing or the nuances of flavour profiling, these sessions will expand your understanding and appreciation of English whisky.

Meet the Makers

A hallmark of the festival is its community spirit. Guests have the unique chance to meet and chat with the distillers, blenders, and brand ambassadors behind their favourite whiskies. These passionate artisans are keen to share their insights, from the careful selection of ingredients to the intricate ageing processes that define their whiskies. It’s a rare opportunity to gain a personal perspective on the industry and what drives these craftsmen and craftswomen to perfect their craft.

Food, Music, and More

No whisky festival is complete without some fantastic food to complement the drinks. Expect a selection of food stalls offering dishes that pair beautifully with whisky, from cheese platters to smoked meats. Live music performances throughout the day will add to the vibrant atmosphere, making this an event where all your senses are engaged.

Important Details

When: Saturday, 23 November 2024

Where: The Bond, Digbeth, Birmingham

Tickets: Available online – it’s recommended to book in advance as the event is expected to sell out.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a connoisseur or a curious beginner, or looking for a Christmas gift for a whisky lover, the English Whisky Festival is a brilliant way to dive into England’s burgeoning whisky culture. With its unique tastings, informative masterclasses, and the chance to meet the faces behind the bottles, it’s set to be a celebration of English whisky unlike any other.

So, raise your glass and join the festival that brings whisky lovers together – here’s to the English Whisky Festival 2024! Cheers!

Which brands can you see? Confirmed so far are:-

Abingdon Distillery

Ad Gefrin

Adnams

Bankhall

Bimber Distillery

Canterbury Brewers & Distillers

Circumstance

Cooper King Distillery

Masthouse (Copper Rivet)

Cotswolds Distillery

East London Liquor Company

Exploring English Whisky

Ellers Farm

Elsham Wold

English Whisky Co

Fielden

Grasmere Distillery

Henstone Distillery

The Lakes Distillery

Lancaster Spirits Company

Ludlow Distillery

Mercia Whisky

Penrock Distillery

Retribution Distilling Co.

Sacred Spirits

Spirit of Birmingham

One Point Six (Spirit of Manchester)

The Cheshire (Weetwood Distillery)

Wireworks (White Peak)

Whittakers Distillery

Witchmark (Wiltshire distilling Co)

To learn more and to book tickets visit https://www.exploringenglishwhisky.co.uk.

A Taste of Christmas: Regional Specialities from Across the UK and Ireland

The festive season is not just about presents and decorations; it’s also a time to indulge in delicious, traditional foods. 

Across the UK and Ireland, each region brings its own unique flair to Christmas feasting. From hearty pies to sweet treats, here’s a look at some special Christmas foods from across the isles.

1. England: Yorkshire Christmas Pie

Yorkshire has a long-standing tradition of hearty pies, and the Christmas version is no exception. The Yorkshire Christmas Pie is an extravagant affair. This grand pie is packed with multiple layers of meat—traditionally, everything from turkey and goose to game birds. It's an awe-inspiring centrepiece for a Christmas table, often surrounded by rich gravy and seasonal vegetables.

For something a little sweeter, mince pies are a beloved part of Christmas celebrations across England. Filled with dried fruits, spices, and sometimes a dash of brandy, these tiny pies are thought to bring good luck when eaten during the 12 days of Christmas.

2. Scotland: Cloutie Dumpling

In Scotland, Christmas dinner isn't complete without a slice of Cloutie Dumpling. This spiced fruit pudding is boiled in a cloth (the “clout”), giving it a characteristic skin and dense texture. It's a traditional dessert that’s rich with dried fruits, suet, and spices, often soaked in whisky to add warmth to the festive table. Traditionally served with custard or a dram of whisky, it’s a true winter warmer.

Another festive Scottish treat is the black bun, a fruitcake wrapped in pastry, traditionally eaten on Hogmanay (New Year's Eve) but sometimes seen during the Christmas period too.

3. Wales: Bara Brith

Christmas in Wales wouldn’t be complete without a slice of Bara Brith, a rich fruit loaf steeped in tea and flavoured with mixed spice. Although it’s often enjoyed year-round, it takes on a special place at Christmas, sometimes served alongside other traditional foods like Welsh cakes. The fruity, spiced aroma of Bara Brith feels especially festive when enjoyed with a hot cup of tea on a cold winter’s day.

Additionally, tê bach, a spiced biscuit often served at Christmas parties, makes a delightful sweet snack for Welsh families over the festive season.

4. Northern Ireland: Fifteens

Northern Ireland's Christmas gatherings often feature a no-bake treat called Fifteens. These sweet, moreish bites are named after their simple recipe: 15 digestive biscuits, 15 marshmallows, and 15 glacé cherries mixed with condensed milk and coconut. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, Fifteens are a favourite at festive parties and get-togethers in Northern Ireland.

Another traditional Northern Irish Christmas food is the Christmas spiced beef, often served cold with mustard or chutney. This delicacy is made by marinating a joint of beef in a mixture of spices for up to two weeks before slow-cooking it. It’s a robust, deeply flavoured dish that's perfect for a festive buffet.

5. Ireland: Spiced Beef and Guinness Cake

Across the water in the Republic of Ireland, one of the most famous Christmas dishes is spiced beef. This centuries-old dish, particularly popular in Cork, involves marinating beef in a blend of spices (cloves, allspice, juniper, and brown sugar) for several days before slow-cooking or boiling. The result is a tender, flavour-packed joint often served cold in sandwiches or with potatoes and cabbage on Christmas Day.

For dessert, a slice of Guinness cake rounds off the meal perfectly. The dark, rich stout adds a depth of flavour to this fruit-laden cake, making it a popular alternative to the traditional Christmas pudding.

6. Cornwall: Saffron Cake

Cornwall brings a touch of golden warmth to the festive table with saffron cake. This yeasted sweet bread, spiced with saffron and filled with currants and raisins, is a traditional Cornish treat. Though it's not exclusive to Christmas, it's often made during the festive season and pairs perfectly with a cup of tea on a chilly afternoon.

Cornwall’s long-standing fishing tradition also makes stargazy pie a unique Christmas dish. Originally from the Cornish village of Mousehole, this pie features pilchards poking their heads through the pastry “gazing” skywards. While traditionally associated with the winter festival of Tom Bawcock’s Eve (just before Christmas), it occasionally finds its way onto the Christmas table.

7. The Midlands: Shropshire Fidget Pie

In the Midlands, particularly in Shropshire, you’ll find Fidget Pie making an appearance during the festive period. This traditional pie, made with ham, apples, and onions, wrapped in a flaky pastry, offers a savoury-sweet combination that is both hearty and comforting—perfect for the cold winter months.

Another Midlands speciality is pork pie, often served cold as part of a buffet or Boxing Day spread. Melton Mowbray, in Leicestershire, is famous for producing some of the best pork pies in the country.

8. The Channel Islands: Jersey Wonders

In the Channel Islands, Jersey Wonders are a traditional Christmas treat. These light, fried doughnut-like pastries are twisted into knots and served with tea. Although they’re typically enjoyed throughout the year, they hold a special place in festive gatherings, bringing a sweet, nostalgic touch to Christmas.

Conclusion

Each region across the UK and Ireland adds its own culinary flair to the Christmas season, reflecting its local produce, history, and culture. From hearty pies in Yorkshire to spiced beef in Ireland and sweet treats like Cloutie Dumpling and Bara Brith, these foods help bring families and communities together, celebrating the best of regional flavours. Whether you stick to tradition or explore a new dish from another part of the country, there’s no better way to celebrate the festive season than with a feast filled with history and flavour.

Merry Christmas, and happy feasting!