For soccer fans Christmas Day is about so much more than presents, it’s rooted in soccer-themed traditions that the whole family can enjoy! Around the world, soccer and Christmas often go hand-in-hand, making the holidays feel even more festive and exciting. From the tradition of Festive Fixtures, dating back to the 19th century, to family traditions that we take part in every year, there’s something extra magical about soccer around Christmas time. Keep reading for a list of some of the most popular soccer-themed traditions for Christmas Day that you’ll want to add to your holiday line-up, if you haven’t already!

1.    Premier League’s Festive Fixtures

If you read our latest blog on “What makes the Premier League's Festive Fixtures so special?”, you’ll already know how much soccer fans look forward to these iconic matches over Christmas! Every December means the beginning of the Premier League Festive Fixtures, an annual event filled with history, tradition, and back-to-back soccer matches. With Boxing Day battles, fixtures to ring in the New Year and holiday crowds making the stadiums feel more festive than ever, there’s a reason why the Festive Fixtures have become a beloved part of the holiday season for fans around the world. Whether you’re watching a match with the whole family this Christmas, or challenging each other in a Fantasy Premier League game, Festive Fixtures are rooted in tradition that bring soccer fans together every year!

2.    “Turkey Bowls” and Charity Games

If you’ve never heard of the term “Turkey Bowl” in the world of soccer, basically it’s a game where the whole community comes together for a seasonal event that celebrates sports and the holiday spirit. They’re considered Christmas Day traditions in many communities, bringing together friends, former teammates and neighbours for a friendly soccer match. These games are usually in support of a local charity and are organized as a way for everyone to give back, which at the end of the day is what the holiday season is all about!

3.    Festive Soccer Sweaters

The most magical time of year means soccer fans have the opportunity to wear their team pride while also getting in the holiday spirit! Some clubs choose to embrace the “ugly Christmas sweater” trend, while others take inspiration from their stadiums, club colours, and home cities for sweaters that are stylish enough for everyday wear. Not only are soccer-themed Christmas sweaters a great conversation starter at your annual Christmas Day gathering, but they’re also a go-to tradition for wearing on Christmas morning or while watching Festive Fixtures. Check out our blog where we’ve compiled a list of the best soccer-themed Christmas sweaters you need this year, featuring legendary clubs like Manchester City, Barcelona and Tottenham!

4.    A New Soccer Ball from Santa

For so many soccer fans across the globe, Christmas morning means finding a shiny new soccer ball waiting for them under the tree! The tradition of Santa bringing a new soccer ball every year is something that many families take part in and is passed on to the next generation of young players. There’s something about making it through an entire year with one ball and waking up Christmas morning with a fresh one that feels symbolic. The first kick outside on Christmas day marks the start of a new year of exciting matches for soccer players of all ages!

5.    Soccer-Themed Christmas Tree

For many of us, the main focus when it comes to Christmas decor is the tree! Soccer-themed Christmas trees are a long-standing tradition that combines the love for the beautiful game with holiday decor. There are so many soccer-themed ornaments and DIYs you can find online to transform your tree into every soccer lover's dream. But we especially love SoccerStarz mini player ornaments and mini boots for adding a playful, collectible twist to your tree. On Christmas morning, the very first thing you’ll see is a tree lit up with team pride! You can find a wide selection of ornaments online at SoccerCards.ca.