As December rolls around, the world lights up in a collective embrace of Christmas cheer. From bustling metropolises to quiet rural villages, Christmas is celebrated in many different ways, reflecting the rich tapestry of global cultures. While the essence of the holiday -- joy and togetherness -- remains universal, the traditions and customs surrounding it vary dramatically. This festive season, let's take a journey through some of the most unique and heartwarming Christmas celebrations from around the world.

*No. 1: The Enchanting Lights of the Philippines

The Philippines, home to one of the longest Christmas seasons in the world, kicks off the festivities as early as September with the "Ber months." The highlight of the celebration is the "Simbang Gabi," a series of nine pre-dawn masses leading up to Christmas Eve.

The final mass, known as "Misa de Gallo," is held on Dec. 24. Meanwhile, streets and homes are adorned with "parols" -- star-shaped lanterns symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem. These lanterns are traditionally crafted from bamboo and paper.

*No. 2. Iceland's 13 Yule Lads

In Iceland, Christmas traditions blend folklore with festivity. Instead of one Santa Claus, Icelandic children anticipate the arrival of 13 "Yule Lads," mischievous yet generous figures who descend from the mountains to leave small gifts in shoes placed on window sills. Each of the Yule Lads, with names like "Spoon-Licker" and "Door-Slammer," has a distinct personality and role. The festivities culminate on Christmas Eve with a grand feast, where families gather to enjoy dishes such as smoked lamb and fermented shark.

*No. 3: Germany's Cozy Christmas Markets

Germany's famous Christmas markets transform city squares into wonderlands of twinkling lights, mulled wine and artisanal crafts. Each market has its own unique charm, and one of the most famous is Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt.

On Dec. 6, children eagerly await "Nikolaustag," when Saint Nicholas fills their shoes with sweets and small gifts. The season also brings the cherished tradition of baking "Lebkuchen" (gingerbread) and "Stollen" (fruitcake), creating a warm, spiced aroma that fills homes across the country.

*No. 4: Japan's KFC Christmas Dinner

In Japan, Christmas festivities come with a unique twist. A clever marketing campaign in the 1970s transformed Kentucky Fried Chicken into the nation's go-to Christmas meal. Today, millions of Japanese families pre-order their Christmas KFC buckets, along with chicken, cake and Champagne. Streets are illuminated with elaborate light displays, and couples celebrate Christmas Eve as a romantic holiday akin to Valentine's Day, often indulging in decadent dinners and gift exchanges.

*No. 5: Australia's Beachside Christmas

While much of the world envisions Christmas under a blanket of snow, Australians celebrate the holiday under the sun. With temperatures soaring, Australians often trade in their Christmas sweaters for swimsuits, and the traditional Christmas dinner for a barbecue on the beach. Bondi Beach in Sydney becomes a melting pot of locals and tourists donning Santa hats and enjoying the waves. Christmas in Australia is synonymous with seafood, and the iconic pavlova-- a meringue-based dessert topped with fresh fruit -- is a staple at festive gatherings.

Whether it's lighting a parol in the Philippines, hanging a stocking in Germany or enjoying a KFC dinner in Japan, Christmas highlights the richness of human diversity. This holiday season, let us celebrate the richness of global traditions. After all, the essence of Christmas is in sharing joy, in all its forms, around the world.