December looks different when you’re away from home. While you’re living or traveling abroad, the people you love are back in their own countries, celebrating in ways that feel familiar to them — and sometimes surprisingly unique. These unusual December traditions become something you experience from a distance, through the stories and sounds shared by family and friends.
That’s why so many people abroad rely on KeepCalling during the holidays. A Voice Credit call, a Mobile Recharge sent home, or a Travel eSIM that keeps you connected on the move lets you feel close to the traditions you grew up with — even if you’re celebrating December somewhere else.
Austria: Calling During the Krampus Parades
Austria’s early December celebrations include the famous Krampuslauf, where costumed figures roam the streets with bells and drums.
If you call someone during these evenings, you might hear the parade in the background — a lively way to join one of Europe’s most unusual December traditions firsthand.
Japan: A Christmas Feast at KFC
One of Japan’s most charming holiday customs is gathering around a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken.
A December call to Japan might include someone proudly showing you their holiday spread — a lighthearted window into one of the world’s most unusual December traditions.
Venezuela: Roller-Skating to Church
In Caracas, early morning December church services come with a surprising twist: families roller-skate through closed streets at dawn.
A voice call or a quick Mobile Recharge lets you share in the fun when loved ones send you photos from this vibrant tradition.
Iceland: Meeting the 13 Yule Lads (and Avoiding the Christmas Cat)
Iceland’s folklore brings 13 Yule Lads — one visiting each day — along with the famous Christmas Cat.
Calling home to hear which Yule Lad appeared is an easy way to connect with one of the most unique and unusual December traditions.
Finland: The Christmas Sauna
While many countries fill December with noise, Finland embraces calm. Families gather for a Christmas Eve sauna — a quiet moment before celebrations begin.
A call afterward often feels soft, warm, and peaceful, just like the tradition itself.
Ghana: A Month of Weddings and Family Reunions
In Ghana, December is one of the biggest months for weddings, reunions, and celebrations.
Sending a Mobile Recharge helps family and friends stay connected through a month filled with music, gatherings, and joy — a lively example of unusual December traditions.
These unusual December traditions aren’t just interesting customs — they’re the real things happening at home while you’re away. Calling to hear the noise of a Krampus parade, sending a Mobile Recharge so someone can update you from a December wedding in Ghana, or using your Travel eSIM to join a video call from the airport… every small connection pulls you back into the season you miss.
Wherever your travels take you, KeepCalling helps you stay part of the moments unfolding back home — the laughter, the noises, the rituals, and the warmth that make December feel like December.
