Cultural Appropriation Versus Appreciation in Global Holiday Traditions
Let’s be real for a second. The holidays are a beautiful, messy, colorful collision of cultures. You’ve got Diwali lights in November, Christmas markets in December, and maybe a friend posting a pic of a hanbok they wore at a Lunar New Year party. It’s all festive, right? Well… sometimes it’s not that simple.
There’s a fine line between celebrating a tradition and accidentally—or carelessly—taking something that isn’t yours. That line? It’s the difference between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation. And honestly, it’s a line that gets blurry every single holiday season.
What’s the Real Difference?
Cultural appropriation isn’t just borrowing a cool outfit or a recipe. It’s when a dominant culture takes elements from a marginalized culture—often without understanding, respect, or context. Think of it like grabbing a souvenir without paying the price of history.
Appreciation, on the other hand, is about respect. It’s learning, asking permission, giving credit, and understanding the weight behind the tradition. It’s not just wearing a sari to a party—it’s knowing the significance of the draping, the fabric, the occasion.
Here’s a quick table to break it down:
| Cultural Appropriation | Cultural Appreciation |
|---|---|
| Takes without permission | Asks, learns, or is invited |
| Ignores original meaning | Honors the context |
| Often commercializes or trivializes | Shares respectfully |
| Perpetuates stereotypes | Challenges stereotypes |
| Benefits the taker, not the source | Benefits the community (e.g., supporting artisans) |
Why Holidays Are a Hotspot for This
Holidays are emotional. They’re wrapped in family, memory, and identity. So when someone outside the culture uses a sacred symbol as a party decoration? It stings. Take the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos). It’s not “Mexican Halloween.” It’s a deeply spiritual time to honor ancestors. Painting a sugar skull on your face for a costume party? That’s appropriation, not appreciation.
But here’s the twist—some traditions are meant to be shared. Diwali, for example, is often called the “festival of lights,” and many non-Hindus are welcomed to join. The key? Invitation and intent. If you’re lighting a diya because a friend invited you to their celebration, that’s appreciation. If you’re doing it for Instagram likes without knowing why? Yeah, that’s a problem.
Real-World Examples That Get Messy
Let’s look at a few holiday traditions that often spark debate. And fair warning—some of these might hit close to home.
Christmas and the “White Savior” Complex
Christmas is everywhere. But when Western brands slap “exotic” elements onto it—like a Native American headdress on a Christmas elf—it’s tone-deaf. Or when people dress up as “Chinese” or “African” Santa? That’s not festive. That’s stereotyping. Appreciation would be learning how different cultures actually celebrate Christmas—like the Parol lanterns in the Philippines or Las Posadas in Mexico.
Hanukkah and the Dreidel Problem
Hanukkah isn’t “Jewish Christmas.” It’s a minor holiday with a major story of resistance. When companies sell “Hanukkah sweaters” with puns and cartoon menorahs, they often miss the point. Appreciation? That’s understanding the miracle of the oil—not just spinning a dreidel for fun.
Lunar New Year and the “Red Envelope” Rush
Lunar New Year is huge—spanning Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and other cultures. But when a fashion brand uses red envelopes as a “trendy” accessory without explaining the symbolism (luck, prosperity, warding off evil)? That’s appropriation. Appreciation? Actually learning the etiquette—like never giving an odd amount of money, or why the color red is so important.
So, How Do You Actually Appreciate Without Appropriating?
It’s not rocket science. But it does require a little humility. Here’s a rough guide—think of it as a checklist, not a rulebook.
- Ask yourself: “Am I invited?” If a friend or community invites you to participate, you’re likely in appreciation territory. If you’re just showing up uninvited? Pump the brakes.
- Do the research. Before you wear that kimono to a New Year’s party, know its history. Is it a casual garment? Is it sacred? A quick Google search can save you from embarrassment.
- Support the source. Buy from actual artisans, not fast-fashion knockoffs. If you’re buying a sari, buy from a South Asian shop. If you’re decorating with rangoli, learn from someone who practices it.
- Credit where it’s due. If you post a photo, tag the culture. Say “Inspired by [culture]” and explain what you learned. Don’t just caption it “#festive.”
- Listen when someone says “that hurts.” If a person from that culture tells you you’ve crossed a line? Don’t get defensive. Apologize, learn, and do better.
The Gray Area: When Sharing Is Actually Beautiful
Not every exchange is appropriation. In fact, some of the most meaningful holiday moments happen when cultures genuinely share. Think about it—Thanksgiving dinner with a twist of tamales. A Christmas tree decorated with origami cranes. A diya next to a menorah. That’s not theft. That’s… well, it’s humanity.
The difference is intention + education. If you’re genuinely curious and respectful, most communities are happy to share. But if you’re just using their traditions as a backdrop for your own aesthetic? That’s where it gets icky.
I remember once seeing a friend wear a bind (that red dot on the forehead) to a music festival. She had no idea it was a religious symbol—she thought it was “just a cute accessory.” She wasn’t malicious. But she was uninformed. And that’s the thing—most appropriation isn’t mean-spirited. It’s just… lazy.
Trends to Watch in 2025 and Beyond
Right now, we’re seeing a shift. Brands are getting called out more. People are asking questions. And honestly? That’s progress. Some companies now hire cultural consultants for holiday campaigns. Others partner with community leaders to co-create products. It’s not perfect, but it’s a start.
On social media, hashtags like #AppreciateNotAppropriate are gaining traction. Influencers are sharing “deep dives” into holiday origins. Even schools are teaching kids the difference. So yeah—the conversation is happening.
But there’s still a long way to go. Especially when it comes to commercialization. Big box stores still sell “tribal” patterns without context. Halloween costumes still mock sacred traditions. And that’s where we—as consumers—can vote with our wallets.
A Final Thought (No, Not a Conclusion)
Look, no one is saying you can’t enjoy a holiday that isn’t your own. That would be absurd. The world is too interconnected for that. But there’s a difference between being a guest at the table and stealing the silverware.
So next time you’re tempted to throw on a sombrero for Cinco de Mayo or wear a headdress to a New Year’s party… pause. Ask yourself: Am I honoring this tradition, or am I just using it? The answer might surprise you.
And if you’re unsure? Reach out. Ask a friend. Read a book. Watch a documentary. The effort itself is a form of respect. And honestly? That’s what the holidays are really about—connection, not consumption.
