Originally published December 9, 2014. Updated December 3, 2026.
Many families establish and enjoy little holiday traditions of their own. For instance, we like to open one gift on Christmas Eve, leaving the rest under the tree until the following morning.
Books can be a wonderful way to introduce children to holiday customs, stories, foods, and celebrations from different places. This collection includes tales about generosity, family, winter traditions, imagination, and the many ways people celebrate the holiday season.
The Tomtes’ Christmas Porridge
The Tomtes’ Christmas Porridge by Sven Nordqvist introduces readers to the tomte, a house spirit from Scandinavian folklore. According to tradition, tomtes help care for a household throughout the year and expect a bowl of porridge at Christmas.
This good-humored story features whimsical illustrations and shows how an old tradition can fit into modern life. Children will enjoy the imaginative characters and may even want to start their own holiday porridge tradition.
Gingerbread Baby
Gingerbread Baby by Jan Brett gives the classic gingerbread-man story an unexpected twist. Set against a beautiful winter landscape inspired by Switzerland, the book features detailed illustrations, cozy clothing, and charming rural architecture.
Although the story does not focus on a specific Swiss holiday tradition, the setting provides plenty to discuss with children. After reading it, make gingerbread cookies together or invite your child to draw a picture of their own gingerbread adventure.
Cobweb Christmas: The Tradition of Tinsel
Cobweb Christmas: The Tradition of Tinsel by Shirley Climo tells the story of spiders who are pushed outside while a family cleans and decorates for Christmas. When the spiders return to see the tree, they leave behind a sparkling surprise.
This imaginative story offers a sweet explanation for the tradition of tinsel while celebrating creativity, resourcefulness, and holiday magic. Children may enjoy making their own spider-themed decorations after reading the book.
Christmas from Heaven
Christmas from Heaven: The True Story of the Berlin Candy Bomber by Tom Brokaw tells the inspiring story of pilot Gail Halvorsen, who dropped candy to children in Berlin during the difficult years following World War II.
This beautifully illustrated picture book introduces older children to an important historical event while showing how one person’s kindness can bring hope during a challenging time. It is a thoughtful choice for discussing generosity, compassion, and the power of small acts.
The Legend of Old Befana
The Legend of Old Befana by Tomie dePaola introduces children to Befana, a beloved figure in Italian holiday folklore. According to the legend, Befana travels from home to home, leaving gifts for children.
Tomie dePaola’s warm illustrations and storytelling make this a memorable book for families who want to explore holiday traditions beyond the familiar stories of Santa Claus.
The Legend of the Poinsettia
The Legend of the Poinsettia by Tomie dePaola tells the story behind the poinsettia’s connection with Christmas. The book follows a young girl named Lucida, whose humble gift becomes part of a beautiful holiday legend.
This story offers an opportunity to talk with children about generosity, faith, symbolism, and the meaning behind familiar holiday decorations.
Christmas in Noisy Village
Christmas in Noisy Village by Astrid Lindgren invites readers into a small Swedish village where children and families prepare for Christmas together.
The story captures the excitement of choosing Christmas trees, baking gingersnap cookies, making decorations, and waiting for the celebration to begin. Children will enjoy the busy village atmosphere and the sense of community throughout the story.
The Carpenter’s Gift
The Carpenter’s Gift: A Christmas Tale About the Rockefeller Center Tree by David Rubel combines history and fiction in a story about the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree.
The book explores the tradition of the famous New York City tree while also showing what can happen to a tree after the holiday season ends. It is a thoughtful choice for discussing traditions, generosity, community, and giving materials a second life.
Christmas Around the World: A Pop-Up Book
Christmas Around the World: A Pop-Up Book by Chuck Fischer introduces children to holiday traditions, symbols, and mythical figures from more than 10 countries.
With pop-up illustrations, removable booklets, pullouts, and interactive details, this book makes a memorable gift for children who enjoy learning through hands-on exploration.
Christmas Around the World
Christmas Around the World by Mary D. Lankford explores holiday celebrations in different countries and communities. It includes religious traditions, marketplace customs, holiday foods, crafts, and other seasonal activities.
Reading this book together can inspire your family to try a new recipe, make a holiday craft, or learn more about how another culture celebrates this time of year.
Reading holiday books together is a simple way to create family memories while helping children appreciate different traditions and points of view. Choose a few stories, make a seasonal snack, and settle in for a cozy reading tradition of your own.