For almost as long as Alicia Holly can remember, “Pikku Joulu” has been a part of her Christmas tradition.

“Pikku Joulu,” which means little Christmas in Finnish, has been a staple at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in DeKalb since the 1970s. The annual celebration honored the traditions from the home country of many of the church’s original members, but it also sparked an interest that has led to a more global take on Christmas.

“It’s the kickoff to our Advent season,” said Holly, a lifelong member. “It’s just a real nice way for the church to get together and celebrate the different heritages the church has and many different traditions around the world.”