Holidays Around the World: A Celebration of Diversity at Alexander Academy

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As December rolls in, the festive spirit lights up homes, schools, and streets across the globe. At Alexander Academy, we’re proud to have students from over 24 countries, each bringing unique traditions, stories, and celebrations to our multicultural community. This year, we kicked off the season with our annual Multicultural Festival, where students shared the beauty of their heritage through traditional dress, food, music, and performances. The vibrant event brought our school community together, fostering a deeper appreciation for the diverse cultures that make Alexander Academy so special.

Building on this spirit of unity, let’s take a journey around the world to explore some of the cherished holiday traditions celebrated by our diverse student body.

Christmas in the Philippines

In the Philippines, Christmas celebrations start as early as September, making it one of the longest holiday seasons in the world. Parols (star-shaped lanterns) adorn homes and streets, symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem. Filipino students at Alexander Academy often share tales of “Simbang Gabi,” a series of dawn masses, and the grand Noche Buena feast on Christmas Eve.

Hanukkah: The Festival of Lights

For our Jewish students, December is a time to celebrate Hanukkah. This eight-day festival commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Families light the menorah, enjoy traditional foods like latkes and sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts), and play games with dreidels. The values of perseverance and hope resonate deeply in our community.

Diwali—A Late Celebration for Some

Though Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, often falls in October or November, its spirit carries into December for many. At Alexander Academy, our Indian and South Asian students share their traditions of lighting diyas (oil lamps), wearing vibrant clothing, and enjoying sweets. The celebration emphasizes triumph over darkness and the importance of family.

Kwanzaa: Honoring African Heritage

Kwanzaa, celebrated from December 26 to January 1, is a time to honor African heritage and culture. The seven principles of Kwanzaa, including unity, self-determination, and creativity, inspire students to reflect on community values. For those who observe Kwanzaa, the week is filled with storytelling, music, and the lighting of the kinara.

New Year’s Eve in Brazil

Japanese Ōmisoka

For Japanese students, December 31, or Ōmisoka, is a time for reflection and preparation. Families clean their homes to start the new year fresh and gather to eat toshikoshi soba (buckwheat noodles), symbolizing longevity. At midnight, bells ring 108 times in Buddhist temples, representing purification from earthly desires.

Winter Solstice in China

Sharing Traditions at Alexander Academy

At Alexander Academy, our hallways echo with stories, laughter, and the vibrant energy of students celebrating their heritage. During the holiday season, we encourage everyone to share their traditions with classmates—whether it’s through food, music, or cultural presentations. This exchange not only enriches our community but also fosters understanding and respect for one another.

This December, as we light our trees, menorahs, and candles or reflect on the year past, let’s celebrate the diversity that makes Alexander Academy unique. Our international family reminds us that no matter where we’re from, the spirit of the holidays brings us together in unity and joy.

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