For Poles, Christmas Eve is a night of magic. People think animals can talk with them. So they often lay out delicious food to treat animals. Then they have a big meal. The meal usually starts when the first star appears. There is no red meat served but fish. The supper, which includes many traditional dishes and desserts, can sometimes last for over two hours. It is followed by the exchange of gifts. The next day, the Christmas Day, is often spent visiting friends.

    In Austria, celebrating Christmas is a tradition. As children in other countries, they get to welcome the Santa Claus. But they also have to face the bad ghost- Krampus. Santa Claus arrives on December 6 and gives toys and other presents to children. Krampus arrives on December 5. looking to punish all the bad children. Some local men also dress up like Krampus to warn the children to do better in the coming New Year.