European Cities Face Backlash Over Modern Christmas Traditions
BRUSSELS, Belgium — As the holiday season unfolds across Europe, a wave of controversy has emerged surrounding efforts by cities and institutions to modernize Christmas traditions in the name of inclusivity. In Brussels, the unveiling of a contemporary nativity scene featuring faceless figures has sparked intense public backlash, while in the United Kingdom, a museum’s suggestion to rethink the traditional image of Father Christmas has drawn sharp criticism.
The Brussels city government introduced a new nativity installation in the Grand Place earlier this month, designed by German artist Victoria-Maria. The artwork replaces the familiar figures with faceless characters, a move intended to offer a modern and inclusive interpretation of the Christmas story. However, the installation quickly became a lightning rod for dissent. Local politicians and residents expressed outrage, with some labeling the figures as “zombies” and acts of vandalism reported. Belgian national soccer player Thomas Meunier voiced his frustration on social media, stating, “We’ve hit rock bottom… and we keep digging,” a message that resonated widely.
Brussels Mayor Philippe Close, a Socialist Party member, defended the decision during a press conference, emphasizing the city’s intent to balance tradition and contemporary sensibilities. “In this Christmas period, we need to tone it down,” Close said, noting that while other cities have removed nativity scenes altogether, Brussels chose to retain one with a fresh perspective. He explained that the previous nativity had been in use for 25 years and was deteriorating. “It was time to take a new direction. We are very happy with Victoria-Maria’s creation, and we want to make sure the artist is not attacked personally.”
This dispute in Brussels reflects a broader European trend where public institutions are reconsidering holiday symbols amid ongoing cultural debates. In the United Kingdom, Brighton and Hove Museums, a publicly funded institution, reignited controversy by publishing a blog post two years ago that recently resurfaced. Written by Simone LaCorbinière, the museum’s Joint Head of Culture Change, the post argued that Father Christmas is “too white and too male” and called for the figure to be “decolonized.” LaCorbinière also criticized the traditional concept of Santa judging children based on a “naughty or nice” list.
The museum’s stance has been met with backlash from those who view such changes as an unnecessary politicization of Christmas. The debate touches on broader discussions about cultural representation and historical narratives during the holiday season. The controversy echoes similar conversations about inclusivity and tradition taking place in other European cities and institutions.
These developments come amid a complex landscape where governments and cultural organizations grapple with evolving social values while respecting longstanding customs. The European Union has encouraged member states to promote diversity and inclusion, yet such efforts often encounter resistance when they intersect with deeply rooted cultural practices.
Meanwhile, the UK Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport continues to support museums and cultural institutions in initiatives aimed at broadening representation, though public opinion remains divided.
As the holiday season progresses, the tension between preserving tradition and embracing change is likely to persist. Brussels’ modern nativity scene and the UK museum’s call for reimagining Father Christmas exemplify the challenges faced by societies striving to balance heritage with contemporary values.
For more information on cultural heritage policies and public art guidelines, see the UK Heritage Government Site and the Council of Europe’s Culture and Heritage Portal.
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