Merry Christmas, everyone.

Hey there, welcome back to the podcast.

I'm really happy you're here today.

Christmas is a special time in the United States.

But here's something interesting.

People don't celebrate Christmas the same way everywhere.

In today's episode, let's look at some fun and unusual Christmas traditions from different parts of the USA.

Relax. Just listen. You don't need to remember everything. And if possible, listen to the

episode several times. Let's start in New York City. In December, something funny happens there.

Thousands of people dress up like Santa Claus.

Yes, real adults, not children.

They walk around the city, laugh, take photos, and have fun.

This event is called Santa Con.

It's silly, noisy, and very New York.

Now let's go southwest to New Mexico.

On Christmas Eve, people place small paper lanterns outside their homes. These lanterns are

called luminaries. You can see them on sidewalks, on rooftops, or near doors.

At night the lights are beautiful and calm.

They represent light and hope.

In Louisiana, Christmas looks very different.

Near the Mississippi River, people build big bonfires.

Why? To help Papa Noel, the Cajun Santa Claus find his way.

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