For many people in Japan over the last five decades, KFC — originally known as Kentucky Fried Chicken — has become synonymous with the holiday season. Every year at Christmas, approximately 3.5 million Japanese families choose the chicken chain for their festive meal. This phenomenon has even led to long lines at KFC locations where eager customers wait patiently to purchase their favorite holiday fare, from drumsticks and breasts to specialty items like nuggets and strips.
So, what’s behind the preference for KFC during this time? Remarkably, only about 1% of Japan's population identifies as Christian. This statistic leaves millions of non-Christians searching for ways to celebrate Christmas, often gravitating toward KFC for their Christmas dinner. The tradition can be traced back to restaurant manager Takeshi Okawara, who, back in 1970, overheard an expatriate lamenting the absence of turkey during the holidays. This inspired him to create the Christmas “party barrel,” which would soon evolve the way Japanese families dined on Christmas Eve.
By 1974, the campaign dubbed “Kurisumasu ni wa Kentakkii,” or “Kentucky for Christmas,” was introduced. This marketing strategy was revolutionary and eventually led to the establishment of the famous tradition of enjoying KFC on December 24. What began with mere buckets of fried chicken has transformed over the years to include the standard Christmas party box, which now features not just eight pieces of chicken but also items like shrimp gratin and chocolate cake.
KFC’s approach to this holiday tradition is so successful, they have expanded their menu offerings weeks before Christmas, ensuring families can purchase their specially curated meals without the stress of long waiting times. Interestingly enough, the late KFC founder Colonel Sanders and his successor, who served as the brand spokesperson, both bear somewhat of a resemblance to Santa Claus, adding to the allure.
While KFC Japan has its feet firmly planted within cultural practices during Christmas, KFC branches across the globe are also contributing positively during the holiday season. KFC Ghana has launched its own initiative partnering with the Lions Club of Tema to give back to the community. Just recently, the chain engaged in charity efforts, delivering food donations to children at orphanages across Greater Accra.
About 250 meal packs were donated to the Kinder Paradise Orphanage located in Prampram as part of this charitable effort. Additional meals were distributed to street children throughout Accra at several locations, including the Nima Traffic Lights, 37 Roundabout, Accra Mall, and Oponglo. This ensuring hot meals reached hundreds of underserved individuals during the holiday season enhances the company's dedication to spreading joy when it is needed most.
Lilian Akrofi-Boadu, spokesperson for KFC Ghana, elaborated on the initiative stating, “We are committed to bringing joy during the holidays.” Her sentiments reflect KFC’s broader philosophy of social responsibility, recognizing the importance of giving back to the communities they serve.
KFC's unique approach to the festive season, whether it’s connecting deeply with the Japanese notion of Christmas dinner or actively engaging with communities through charitable initiatives, speaks volumes about the brand's adaptability and commitment to cultural impact. These efforts show how KFC has not only found its niche within the holiday scene but is also striving to make significant contributions to global communities during this festive time.
With the upcoming holiday, it seems KFC is all set to continue its cherished traditions and benevolent efforts, ensuring both its place on dining tables around the world and within the hearts of those it helps during the most wonderful time of the year.
