Christmas eve is celebrated on December 24th all around the world. It is one of the most traditional days of Christmas and each country celebrates this day differently. If we look into the traditional aspect of the
Christmas Eve then this day is reserved for decorating homes and churches. Also this day commences the official time known as Christmas tide. Other than this,
Christmas Eve also has religious significance like the midnight mass. And how can we forget the dear old
Santa Claus that is eagerly awaited by all.
So let’s make the
Christmas Eve of 2008 fanta fabulous, as we look deep inside the customs and traditions related to this day.
Customs and traditions on Christmas Eve
Christmas eve has many different traditions associated with it. In many parts of the world families celebrate Christmas Eve with dinners and
Christmas carol singing. Some even go to midnight church services. Attending the midnight mass on
Christmas Eve is one of the most significant aspects of this day. There are also daylong preparations for the Christmas Eve. On this day the houses are cleaned, special dishes are prepared to welcome the Christmas festivities and people start with the Christmas decorations in full swing.
In Norwegian country
Christmas Eve is said to be the day of peace. The people start the celebrations as they spot the first star indicating the Star of Bethlehem. Similarly in Italy, families have religious significance attached to this day as they fast 24 hours before the
Christmas Eve and then break the fast by having meatless meal. To the Germans
Christmas Eve night means the holy night and offer their prayers to the Christ. The American custom is leaving food before retiring for bed.
There are also some legends and superstitions attached to the
Christmas Eve. Like the French believe that all water will turn to wine on the
Christmas Eve. Similarly the Scandinavians believe that on this day the dead revisit their homes and therefore keep adequate food behind for them.
Christmas Eve Celebrations
Other than the customs and traditions associated with this day, there are also different celebrations that make the
Christmas Eve special. Like one can create a holiday ambience by putting some Christmas songs and giving the room some soft lighting with
candles. Whatever traditions are a part of your
Christmas Eve celebrations, welcome them and don’t discard them as old fashioned and outdated.
Putting up
Christmas decorations is another easy way to celebrate the
Christmas Eve. Another great thing to do on Christmas Eve is to hand out presents and
gift items to your friends and colleagues. Going out with the entire family on
Christmas Eve is also one of the great ways to welcome in the joys of Christmas.
So no matter what you do on this Christmas Eve make sure to live the joy of the festivities around you and wish everyone a Merry Christmas!!
