Which Countries Use Christmas Crackers?

We know and love the fact that crackers are a festive favourite, adding fun and excitement to Christmas celebrations. Originating in the UK (see our previous blog for their history), bonbons have spread far and wide, becoming a beloved tradition in several countries. Let’s take a closer look at where you’ll find Christmas crackers making a joyful appearance at the dinner table.

United Kingdom: The Birthplace of Crackers

There’s no disputing that the UK is the birthplace of the Christmas cracker, a tradition that dates back to the 1840s. The British Christmas meal isn’t complete without the customary cracker-pull, which traditionally reveals a paper crown, a tiny gift, and a joke or riddle—usually met with groans or giggles. There are, of course, other, more elaborate options – check them out here!

Interestingly, the company founded in 1847 by the creator of the cracker, the Tom Smith Group, remains the official supplier of Christmas crackers (and wrapping paper) to the British royal family. That’s one long tradition!

Ireland: A Festive Favourite

In Ireland, Christmas crackers are just as essential as the turkey and stuffing. The Irish have embraced this British tradition, often adding their own personal touches. Some families include handwritten notes or special mementos inside the crackers, making the experience even more meaningful.

Canada: A Taste of Tradition

In Canada, Christmas crackers are especially popular in regions with deep British roots, like Ontario and British Columbia. Whether it’s a cosy Christmas dinner or a lively holiday party, Canadians love the surprise element that crackers bring. The jokes and trinkets inside often carry a touch of Canadian flair, adding a local twist to this classic tradition.

Australia and New Zealand: Cracking in the Sun

Christmas might arrive in the heat of summer down under, but that doesn’t stop us from embracing what was originally a winter tradition. The British influence is strong here, and Christmas crackers are a must-have at any holiday gathering. Traditionally, families and friends gather around the table to pull crackers, wear their paper crowns, and share a laugh over the silly jokes inside.

More recently, here at Bonbon Fusion, we’ve reinvented the cracker to bring people together around the festive table to go on an adventure hunt or solve a mystery. Our bonbons centre on novel 3D-printed artefacts and are designed and printed by us in Brisbane. Great fun for everyone!

South Africa: Another Summer Snap

Christmas in South Africa also arrives in the middle of summer, but that doesn’t stop the festivities from being full of cheer. The British tradition of crackers has made its way to South African tables, where they’re pulled with enthusiasm during Christmas braais (barbecues) or formal dinners. As in other countries, the snap of a cracker adds a festive touch, and blends British customs with South African hospitality.

A Global Tradition with Local Flavour

Christmas crackers may have started in the UK, but, as you can see, they’ve become a global tradition, bringing joy and laughter to holiday celebrations in countries around the world. And, of course, bonbon fun isn’t limited to Christmas! Date nights, Easter, tailor-made crackers for wedding parties, birthdays, graduations, Valentine’s Day, May Day, Halloween … there are any number of exciting opportunities!