Happy Christmas 2024: Naked Santas, pooping logs, and more bizarre holiday traditions around the world

As Christmas approaches, many countries put their own unique twist on the holiday season. While Santa and his reindeer are the stars in most places, several countries feature traditions that might surprise you.

Here are some of the most unusual Christmas customs from around the world:

Naked Santas in San Francisco

San Francisco’s annual SantaCon takes a different approach to holiday tradition: many participants dress up as Santa – or not at all. The event has become famous for participants who join in the fun in the nude, adding a unique twist to the Christmas festivities.

Pooping log in Spain

In Catalonia, families celebrate with the "Tió de Nadal," or the "pooping log."

The tradition involves a wooden log with a painted face and red hat, which is "fed" treats throughout December. On Christmas Eve, children gather to beat the log with sticks to make it "poop" out candies and small gifts.