Christmas celebration is a festival welcomed by all around the world. With each country having its own way of celebrating Christmas, the spirit of the festival touches each home in all countries. Some of the common symbols associated with Christmas are the Christmas tree, Christmas lights, exchange of gifts, and in some cases burning the Yule log. And not to mention, Santa Claus the favorite of every kid, brings the spirit of Christmas much closer.
Japan
Christmas celebration in Japan has been around since 1930s. on Christmas eve, lovers give each other beautiful gifts and children wait for Uncle Chimney, Santa Claus of course. Food is a part of every celebration and so it is here. Adding to the culinary delights is the feasting on strawberry shortcake with a small Christmas fir tree added to the top. Christmas celebrations in Japan have its own meaning and joy.
Australia and South Africa
For most of us, Christmas is all about snowman and bright color woolens. But in Australia and South Africa, Christmas is warm and the celebrations include a casual picnic table outdoors with a range of fowl or roast front for dinner. But despite the climate, you are sure to find the mistletoe, holly and the special European style of gifting that is accompanied with the festival of Christmas.
Zaire, Rumania, and Poland
Christmas celebrations are enjoyed in these countries with folk plays performed in villages during Christmas. The plays are based on different Christmas nativity stories with complete caricature of Herod and his soldiers, the tax collectors, the three Wise Men, shepherds, sheep, camels, donkey, Mary, Joseph and infant Jesus.
Caribbean Islands
The different Caribbean islands enjoy Christmas celebrations as masquerade performance and parties. One can find groups of children march about the town with their “devils” and halt at different points with small performances of devil dances.
Venezuela
Christmas celebrations in Venezula are altogether different. Just after midnight on Christmas eve, hundreds of rollerskating teen fans move about the town, making their way to the church and a special morning mass. Skating back home, they find Christmas breakfasts waiting for them, featuring hallacas-cornmeal pastries filled with spicy meat, wrapped in banana leaves and boiled.
With each country having its unique way of celebrating Christmas, the festival is yet the most vibrant and colorful festival. The festival transcends language, culture and religious beliefs. No matter what’s your reason of celebrating Christmas in 2011, we hope the spirit behind this holiday touches your life.
Merry Christmas!!!
