photos show how people celebrate the holidays around the world

village of Martsiyanauka, Belarus, gather around a tree to mark the end of an ancient pagan holiday known as Kolyada

the Russian equivalent of Santa Claus, and Snow Maiden take a selfie as they take part in a costume contest.

Finland,gateway to the Arctic north and the "official home town" of Santa Claus

children from around the world come to deliver their wish lists in person

Croatia,residents release thousands of paper lanterns carrying their Christmas hopes

India, where millions celebrate Christmas every year with twinkling fairy lights, trees and nativity scenes, and a midnight church service.

Spain sometimes receive presents on January 6, during the Christian holiday of the Epiphany.

Lebanon, the nativity scene is more popular than the Christmas tree.