Birthdays are an unmissable time for celebrations. And what better way to mark the occasion than with a delightful birthday cake, right? The tradition of birthday cakes has deep roots, intertwining culture and history to create a globally cherished custom. From humble beginnings to grand culinary creations, birthday cakes have come a long way.
Though the heartwarming act of blowing out candles, singing ‘Happy Birthday’ and surprising with gifts remain the focal point, birthday traditions differ so much. In the past, we covered a few great ideas for birthday cakes, but in this post – we take a look at some of the most interesting traditions across the globe.
Birthdays Around the World: A Glimpse of Diversity
As we journey through the unique traditions of various countries, it becomes clear that while the method of celebration may differ, the sentiment remains the same – a desire to bring joy and show love to those celebrating their special day. From the iconic candles and wishes made before blowing them out to the excitement of unveiling a beautifully crafted cake, the universal appeal of birthday cakes transcends boundaries and languages.
Germany: Kinderweck and Candle Crowns
In Germany, there is a ritual of waking the birthday child early in the morning with a traditional cake adorned with candles. Another German custom includes wearing a ‘candle crown’ with the same number of candles as the person’s age, plus an extra for good luck.
Also, in some parts of Germany, a traditional way for unmarried men turning 30 used to involve sweeping city hall steps in drag until they found a kiss from a virgin, but it’s evolved to involve single men and women doing chores while drinking cheap booze to signify their eligibility for marriage.
Watch this video to learn more:
India: Special Blessings and Sweets
In India, birthdays are often celebrated with prayers, taking blessings from elders and distributing sweets to friends & family. Traditional Indian sweets like laddoos and barfis take centre stage, symbolizing the sweetness of life. People also throw a surprise party for their loved ones and shower them with birthday gifts.
Singapore: Longevity Buns and Red Eggs
Birthdays are important milestones, especially in Chinese culture. Longevity buns (peach-shaped buns) are often served, along with a birthday cake, to symbolize a wish for a long and prosperous life. Additionally, in many places, red eggs are given to celebrate a baby’s first month of life.
Watch this video to learn how to make longevity buns:
Japan: Coming of Age and Celebratory Feasts
In Japan, turning 20 is a significant milestone celebrated on Seijin-no-Hi (Coming of Age Day). Young adults often enjoy elaborate meals and cakes with their families to mark the occasion.
South Korea: Special Birthdays and Sebae
South Korea celebrates certain milestone birthdays with great significance. The first birthday, or ‘doljanchi,’ features a ritual called ‘sebae,’ where the child bows to elders to receive blessings and well wishes. There are Rice cakes too, known as ‘tteok,’ that play a central role in these celebrations. You will also find the celebrant being served with miyeok-guk or seaweed soup for breakfast.
Watch this video to learn more:
Russia: Burying Coins and Traditional Blini
In Russia, birthday celebrations often involve burying coins in the yard for good luck and longevity. Blini, thin pancakes, makes for a customary birthday treat. The number of pancakes made symbolizes the age of the birthday person. In fact, it’s quite common for Russians to get a personalized pie on their b’day.
Canada: Butter Tarts and Maple Syrup
In Canada, birthday celebrations often include the classic butter tart – a sweet pastry filled with a gooey mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs. Maple syrup also features prominently in Canadian birthday treats, adding a touch of national flavour. There is also a tradition of nose greasing that is done to ward off bad luck or evil spirits.
Watch this video to learn how to make Canadian butter tarts:
Spain: Ear Pulling
If you get the chance to have your birthday in Spain, it’s best when you’re young. Your Spanish pals will give your ear a little tug for every year you’ve been alive and just when you think it’s done, they’ll give you a strong pull for some added luck.
China: Longevity Noodles and Peach-Shaped Cakes
China’s birthday traditions include longevity noodles, which symbolize a wish for a long life. Peach-shaped cakes are also popular, echoing the significance of the peach in Chinese culture as a symbol of longevity.
New York: Vibrant Celebrations
In NYC, birthdays often involve lively gatherings at trendy restaurants, rooftop bars, iconic venues and even boats. Friends and family share cake along with other sweet eateries and exchange gifts. Furthermore, broadway shows, picnics at Central Park or skyline views add a touch of the city’s vibrancy to the party. Looking for the best birthday cakes in NYC? Check this.
Italy: Almond and Hazelnut Delicacies
Do you know? In Italy, birthday celebrations often feature almond and hazelnut-based desserts like Torta Mandorle E Nocciole. These nutty delights bring a unique and delicious twist to the festivities. Furthermore, receiving birthday gifts comes with a twist. You must open the present right away or you might seem impolite. So, get ready to master your ‘surprised and thankful’ expression!
To conclude…
Happy birthday! Feliz cumpleaños! Bonne Fete! No matter where you are in the world, the heartwarming tradition of celebrating birthdays with cake, gifts and most importantly, joy remains constant. So, if your loved one is about to complete another trip around the sun, keep these traditions in mind to mark their day special.
Anthony is a passionate food enthusiast living in the bustling food scene of New York City. With an insatiable curiosity for culinary exploration, he loves exploring the city’s diverse eateries, seeking out unique flavors and sharing his gastronomic adventures with fellow food lovers.
