Arcadia’s Global Night Before Christmas

Twas the holiday season, and all through the world,
No Arcadian was stirring, not even a squirrel.

Their passports were stamped by countries with care,
Knowing that more adventures would soon be marked there.

We thought we would give you a holiday treat,
From around the world: traditions, silly and sweet.

From Barcelona, a log with presents inside,
You feed him and whack him to get to your prize.

Feliz Navidad, or Bon Nadal i Felic Any Nou
That’s Happy Holidays, and a Happy New Year too!

From London and England they try to ice-skate,
And pull Christmas crackers with all their best mates.

Holiday lights become such a show,
A Winter Wonderland even without the snow.

In Greece, the boat symbolizes coming home,
And is used to show that all are welcome.

Kalantas are sung for holiday goodies,
Including melomakarona and kourabiedes.

In Ireland they watch the Late Late Toy Show
As lists for Daidí na Nollag, (Father Christmas) grow.

For the Irish, the holiday trends:
Focus on food, on family, and on friends.

To Scotland where Christmas used to be banned,
But for New Years Eve, they were ever a fan.

But Christmas spirit could not be restrained,
And their love of Hogmanay is still the same.

From Italy they wish you a Buon Natale
While they eat traditional Panettone

And let’s not forget La Befana, the witch,
Who to good children brings holiday gifts.

So maybe you’re studying abroad in 2018,
Or maybe for now it’s only a dream.

Study abroad with the holiday spirit,
Arcadia Abroad can help you do it.

We may all celebrate in different ways,
(From Hanukkah, to Kwanzaa, to Christmas, Oh My!)

And to you, we Arcadians will recite:
Happy Holidays to all, and to all a good night!