tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post8977703525402973184..comments2023-10-02T11:24:07.835+03:00Comments on Christmas Blog: WEEK 2: LET'S READ!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01402374725121986926noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-79846281001009065392012-12-03T06:02:48.374+04:002012-12-03T06:02:48.374+04:00NO MORE COMMENTARIES AND REPLIES!NO MORE COMMENTARIES AND REPLIES!Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01402374725121986926noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-14134250214809589812012-12-01T22:27:40.831+04:002012-12-01T22:27:40.831+04:00Christmas in Denmark
Christmas in Denmark is supp...Christmas in Denmark<br /><br />Christmas in Denmark is supposed to be when a mischievous elf called Nisse can have his fun. He is said to live in the lofts of old farmhouses and enjoys playing jokes. He wears gray woolen clothes, a red bonnet, red stockings and white clogs. Families leave him a bowl of rice pudding or porridge on Christmas Eve to keep his jokes within limits. Usually though he is kind and helpful helping out on the farms and being especially good to the children. <br /><br />Christmas Eve dinner begins with rice pudding that holds a magic almond inside. Whoever finds the almond receives a prize. They then have goose, red cabbage and browned potatoes. After that lots of pastries and cakes. <br /><br />The Danish tradition is the Christmas plate. This was a tradition in the early days where rich Danes gave plates biscuits and fruit as presents to their servants. These plates were the nicest and best kind and were not used for everyday use, this is the reason why they became so collectable. <br /><br />They take much pride making their own decorations with bright paper, bits of wood and straw. The parents secretly decorate the tree with homemade wood and straw baubles, and children are not permitted to see the tree until dinner on Christmas Eve. The tree is then lit up and families gather around to sing carols and hymns. <br /><br />Each Sunday in Advent, guests are invited to join in the lighting of the candles on the Advent crown. Adults drink a warming mixture of red wine, spices and raisins, and children drink a sweet fruit juice, like strawberry. Everybody eats small cakes of batter which have been cooked over the fire in a special pan, and dusted with icing sugar. <br /><br />In Denmark Christmas Eve is called Juleaften and is the biggest occasion of the year. Parties go on all night, with traditional prune-stuffed roast goose, red cabbage, fried pastries, and cinnamon-laced rice pudding called Grod. The Christmas elves called Julenisse are appeased with rice pudding, and dishes of seeds are placed outdoors for wild birds.Ирина Назароваhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07438864383116963997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-27926241505581553012012-12-01T22:21:37.300+04:002012-12-01T22:21:37.300+04:00Christmas in Malta
A Maltese Christmas traditiona...Christmas in Malta<br /><br />A Maltese Christmas traditionally is centered on the crib or presepju. The child's version of the church crib is called grolta. Everywhere had at least one crib, varying in size and detail. The crib figures are called pasturi and represent Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, the shepherds, angels, villagers and animals such as cows, donkeys and sheep. The Cribs are surrounded by lights and plants.<br /><br />Midnight mass on Christmas Eve is the climax of all religious activities. The whole family attends and everyone wears new clothes. The mass begins with choirs singing carols in Maltese.<br />The highlight of the mass is the reading of a story of the nativity by a ten-year-old boy. After Mass it is customary to greet Il-Milied It-Taijeb which is Happy Christmas, to all who attend.Ирина Назароваhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07438864383116963997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-55697024130126439952012-12-01T22:19:11.507+04:002012-12-01T22:19:11.507+04:00Christmas in Poland
Traditionally, Advent is an i...Christmas in Poland<br /><br />Traditionally, Advent is an important season in the Polish year, with special church services, known as Roraty, being held every morning at 6am. The four Sundays of Advent are said to represent the 4,000 years of waiting for Christ.<br /><br />During Advent and, in some homes, on Christmas Eve, bees wax or plain wax is poured on water, and fortunes are told from the shapes which emerge. <br /><br />Special tasks carried out during Advent are the baking of the Christmas piernik or honey cake, and the making of Christmas decorations. Pierniki are made in a great variety of shapes, including hearts, animals and St Nicholas figures. Traditional decorations include the pajaki, which are handmade mobiles, stars and decorated egg shells. Pajaki are traditional decorations, rather lots of bomb lets, colorful paper chains and lots of electric lights. <br /><br />Beautifully lit Christmas trees are placed in all public arenas, outside churches and in homes. Traditionally the trees are decorated with shiny apples, gift walnuts, beautifully wrapped chocolate shapes and many homemade decorations and candles. On the top of the tree is a star or a glittering top piece. In many homes, sparklers are hung on the branches of the trees giving it a magical air. Sometimes the trees are left standing until February 2nd, the feast day of St Mary of the Candle of Lightning. <br /><br />During Advent, the Gwiadorze or star carriers or carol singers, used to begin wandering through the towns and villages and this would continue until Epiphany. Some of the Gwiadorze sang carols, others recited verses or put on Szopke or puppet show, or herody or nativity scenes. The last two customs are developments from traditional manger scenes or Jaselka or crib. <br /><br />Christmas Eve, Wigilia, is an important part of the Polish Christmas, in fact, the most important rituals are celebrated on this day. <br /><br />A traditional food found in Poland is Oplatek which is a piece of bread pressed with a holy picture on the surface. Oplatek is more symbolic than real food. We celebrate with at least 12 different vegetarian dishes like: mushroom soup, carp, cabbage with pea, stuffed dumplings, and shells macaroni with poppy "makielki". In some homes - some hay is put under the tablecloth (it is connected with Christ's manger). <br /><br />People once carried these oplatek from house to house and wish their neighbors a Merry Christmas. Nowadays, the bread is mostly shared with members of the family and immediate neighbors. As each person shares the bread, they would have to do two things: forgive any hurts that have occurred over the past year and to wish the person all the happiness in the coming year.Ирина Назароваhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07438864383116963997noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-65866551112531093892012-11-30T21:49:56.377+04:002012-11-30T21:49:56.377+04:00In terms of its traditions, Switzerland is basical... In terms of its traditions, Switzerland is basically four different countries. There are German, French and Italian areas. Gifts may be given either on Christmas Eve or New Year's Day, and they are brought by the Christkindli or St. Nicholas or even Father Christmas with his wife Lucy. Both the manger and the Christmas tree hold sway. Carols drift on the air in four languages. Switzerland has maintained its careful neutrality by absorbing the best of all nations.<br /><br /> A tinkling of a silver bell heralds the arrival of Christkindli - a white clad angel, with a face veil held in place by a jeweled crown. The tree candles are lit as she enters each house and hands out presents from the basket held by her child helpers.<br /><br /> The week before Christmas, children dress up and visit homes with small gifts. Bell ringing has become a tradition, and each village competes with the next when calling people to midnight mass. After the service, families gather to share huge homemade doughnuts called ringli and hot chocolate.<br /><br /> In Switzerland, the Chlausjagen Festival or Feast of St. Nichohlas is celebrated at dusk on 6 December with a procession of "lifeltrager' wearing gigantic illuminated lanterns in the shape of a Bishop's mitre on their heads.<br /><br /> The Swiss wait for the Christ child called Christkindli, to arrive with gifts for all in his reindeer-drawn sleigh.Ольга Гуляеваhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/08053731632934388808noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-50174251491192142472012-11-30T21:44:25.146+04:002012-11-30T21:44:25.146+04:00Bulgarians celebrate Christmas on December 25, tho...Bulgarians celebrate Christmas on December 25, though this is somewhat unexpected because Bulgaria is an Orthodox country. The traditional Eastern Orthodox celebration of Christmas lands on January 7. Bulgaria's Orthodox Church follows the Gregorian calendar, which means its religious observances are in keeping with those in the West. If you're in Bulgaria during the winter season, you will see cities like Sofia bedecked in Christmas lights. The Sofia Christmas Market is the ideal place for travelers to go during the month of December to experience Bulgarian Christmas cheer. <br />Bulgarian Christmas Eve<br /> Bulgaria's Christmas Eve is celebrated with a meal consisting of an odd number of dishes which follows the forty-day Advent fast. This vegetarian meal includes grains, vegetables, fruits, and nuts. Walnuts, in particular, are found on the Bulgarian Christmas Eve table. These nuts are cracked in order to predict success or failure for the coming year. Another special aspect of the the Bulgarian Christmas Eve meal is the round loaf of bread, into which a coin is baked. The person who finds the coin will be rewarded with good fortune. <br /><br />The Christmas Eve dinner table may not be cleared until the next morning to provide sustenance for the ghosts of ancestors who may come back to visit before Christmas morning. <br /><br />One belief that is central to Bulgarian culture is the legend that the Virgin Mary bore Christ on Christmas Eve, but only announced his birth the day after, on Christmas Day. Legend also says that Mary was in labor from December 20th until the birth of Christ. December 20th is the Day of St. Ignat, or Ignazhden. <br />Bulgarian Christmas Customs<br /> The vegetarian fast having ended, everyone enjoys an enormous dinner on Christmas Day, with a main dish of some type of meat (often pork). <br /><br />Koledari, or Christmas carolers, go from house to house through villages. These groups of carolers are typically made up of young men dressed in traditional costumes which vary from region to region. Some preparation goes into the koledari's performances, which begin at midnight on Christmas Eve. This tradition is said to protect against evil spirits. The koledari are rewarded with food in return for their services.Ольга Гуляеваhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/08053731632934388808noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-77826283642974387742012-11-28T21:16:04.577+04:002012-11-28T21:16:04.577+04:00Christmas Celebrations in Costa Rica
Christmas in ...Christmas Celebrations in Costa Rica<br />Christmas in Costa Rica is very popular among local people as well travelers. During this time the weather remains very good. The cold weather will in fact help you to take the full pleasure of the Christmas festival in Costa Rica.<br />Travelers who plan their trip here during the Christmas in Costa Rica will find the cities and streets all lit up and that unmistakable festive environment. <br /><br />Christmas in Costa Rica is the most colorful in San Jose. This is mainly because it is the capital of Costa Rica. The way Christmas in Costa Rica is celebrated is different from other parts of the world. The Christmas celebration in Costa Rica has its own style and that is why no travelers wants to miss a chance of seeing it. <br /><br />Christmas in Costa Rica mean Cypress tree. This is the most common tree that is used to deck homes, shops and other places. The scent of the tree immediately reminds one that Christmas is here. Another tree that has a special place in the life of the people of this country is then tree that is present bin the compound of the Children's National Hospital. The best part of the tree that is also in tune with the theme of the Christmas is that it provides to the children who are admitted here. <br /><br />Thus your Christmas in Costa Rica will be a very different and you will remember that experience for a long time. The people here also use the traditional items like lights and balls to decorated their houses during this time. <br /><br />Christmas festival in Costa Rica mean that you will be able to take a look at the Portal. It is one of the main parts of the celebration. The portal is a complete enactment of the birth of Jesus that includes the models of little Jesus, Mary, Joseph and the three wise men, namely Melchor, Gaspar and Baltazar. Thus the importance of this part in the festivities can be easily understood. <br /><br />The fact that gifts are brought by bay Jesus and not by Santa separates the Christmas in Costa Rica from that celebrated in other parts of the world. This is a uniqueness of Christmas Celebration that can be seen here. The night when the gifts are distributed in known as “la Noche Buena” that is the Good Night. This is the reason that it is one of the popular holidays in Costa Rica.Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13654129877180049501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-88510995649362536642012-11-28T21:13:37.852+04:002012-11-28T21:13:37.852+04:00Christmas Celebrations in Indonesia
Christmas in I...Christmas Celebrations in Indonesia<br />Christmas in Indonesia is the time to celebrate and pray to Lord Jesus. To celebrate Christmas in Indonesia, many tourists and travelers from various corners of the world come to Indonesia. Indonesia is predominantly a Christian nation. About 5% of the population is Christian.<br />The people of Indonesia love to celebrate Christmas. Indonesia festivals and events are celebrated with much pomp and gaiety by locals as well as foreigners. <br /><br />One month prior to Christmas in Indonesia people of Indonesia start shopping for Christmas. Caswell's and the other western-oriented supermarket chains stock turkeys, cranberry sauce and other Christmas goodies for the occasion. People throng to these stores in advance because these stores have limited stock. <br /><br />To arrange for the perfect Christmas dinner people visit three or four different supermarkets in order to get all the ingredients, as one supermarket hardly has it all. <br /><br />Tropical pine trees can be purchased in Indonesia. The plastic variations are available in major department stores. Many department stores carry a wide selection of Christmas cards and decorations. <br /><br />Gifts under the tree or filled stockings on Christmas morning are popular in every Christian household. Special lunches with friends, progressive dinners, pictures with Santa, gift exchanges, Christmas parties, special musical performances and many other activities are held on this special day. Christmas party with a gift exchange is how major multi national companies celebrate it in Indonesia. <br /><br />There are scores of needy organizations that collect charitable donations on this day. Children go to an orphanage and deliver gifts or donations. The expatriate community organizes many holiday activities for their members. They even organize charity functions that benefit some of the less fortunate in the city. Women's groups organize Christmas bazaars that usually take place in November. This gives expatriates a chance to shop for Christmas presents before going on leave as well as raise funds to be donated to charity. Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13654129877180049501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-67859643066681534202012-11-28T21:12:31.173+04:002012-11-28T21:12:31.173+04:00Christmas Celebrations in Jamaica
Christmas In Jam...Christmas Celebrations in Jamaica<br />Christmas In Jamaica is a very special occasion in Jamaica. For most Jamaicans, Christmas is purely a religious holiday. All the residents of the island irrespective of their community, religion and financial background spontaneously participate in the festival.<br />If you are planning a visit to Jamaica during Christmas, there are several ways to celebrate Christmas in Jamaica. For several years Christmas has been one of the most important Festivals in Jamaica. <br /><br />Jamaica Christmas has become one of the famous events in Jamaica as it attracts a large number of visitors from all over the world. If you are planning Jamaica Tours in December then arrange it in a way that you can celebrate Christmas in Jamaica. During Christmas there are many things to do in Jamaica. Jamaica Christmas season begins with the lighting of the Christmas tree. Along with the tree the streets, buildings and squares in the city are all decorated with colored lights, big stars and various glittering decorations. Before Christmas Day, city dwellers greet each other a 'Merry Christmas'. Radio stations play 'Christmas carols' all day. <br /><br />Decorating the Christmas tree with lights and balls, bells stars, tinsels, gifts, little toy Santa Clauses and many other decorations is one of the most desired things to do before Christmas. As is in other countries of the world, Jamaicans too clean their houses, decorate the exterior and interior of their houses and do refurbishments. With Christmas round the corner people start shopping. Gifts, chocolates, greetings cards and clothes are popular buys during the eve of Christmas in Jamaica. <br /><br />After all these, people spend the New Year in Jamaica quietly with their family and friends at home. Women make a special Christmas meal and cakes for their children and the rest of their family. Christmas meal in Jamaica include lots of fruits, meat, sorrel and rum punch. Jamaican red wines and rum fruit cakes are the most popular traditional food that you must taste at the time of Christmas in Jamaica. Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13654129877180049501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-88983892639860727632012-11-28T21:10:55.030+04:002012-11-28T21:10:55.030+04:00Christmas Celebrations in Netherlands
Christmas in...Christmas Celebrations in Netherlands<br />Christmas in Netherlands is one of the most cherished festivals. To the busy Netherlands citizens, Christmas in Netherlands brings a golden opportunity to spend an enjoyable vacation with near and dear ones.<br />The Dutch eagerly wait for 5th December. It is the day on which they celebrate the coming of Sinterklaas Avond or St. Nicholas eve. They celebrate with family doings on December 6th and after that everyone is ready to prepare for Netherlands Christmas on December 25th and then for December 26th or New Year and Three Kings Day on January 6th. <br /><br />In the Netherlands St. Nicholas, known as Sinterklaas, is acknowledged for his kindness and generosity. Dutch children are told that on 5th December, on his feast day, he sails from Spain. They fill their shoes with hay and sugar for his horse and awake to find them showered with gifts such as nuts and candy. Sometimes Sinterklaas appears in person in the children's homes, showing a remarkable resemblance to the children's father or uncle. The people of Twente in East Netherlands celebrate a special Advent ceremony. Special horns are driven to chase away the evil spirits and to announce the birth of Christ. <br /><br />The colonial flavor of the typical Dutch tradition, Dutch culture, venerable rituals and conventions of the Scandinavian heritage are clearly shown in the celebration of Christmas in Netherlands. Elegant and stylish decoration, sweet music, gorgeous colors and lively parties make Netherland the most sought after destination during the Christmas time. Celebration of Christmas in Netherlands is incomplete without laying the Christmas table with traditional recipes. <br /><br />Come to Netherlands Tours and enjoy the grand celebration of Christmas in Netherlands. Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13654129877180049501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-82073855756402505792012-11-28T21:09:07.697+04:002012-11-28T21:09:07.697+04:00Christmas Celebrations in Greece
Christmas in Gree...Christmas Celebrations in Greece<br />Christmas in Greece is one of the popular festivals in Greece among the local people. It is the time when the Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.<br />This festival is celebrated worldwide in December. Christmas in Greece holds a lot of significance among the locals.<br /><br />Christmas in Greece goes back to the time of St. Nicholas, who was known as the patron saint of sailors. According to Greek tradition, his clothes were soaked with brine, his beard drenched with saltwater, and his face was covered with perspiration because he had been fighting the storms and waves to reach sinking ships and rescue drowning men from the sea. Even today there is an old custom where many ships never leave port without a St. Nicholas icon carried in the boat.<br /><br />Christmas Festival in Greece is in fact one of the most popular festival. Previously this festival was not considered much of a holiday as compared with Easter. Over the years this festival has become increasingly popular. The houses and streets are decorated with lights. If you get an opportunity to visit Athens you will see the largest Christmas tree in Europe. The tree towers above the constitution square. Besides there are quite a number of stage shows which features the most celebrated Greek entertainers. <br /><br />During this time of the year a common feeling of brotherhood is spread all over Greece. Most of these families have been sharing this custom for centuries. It is a festive time when people celebrate the event with their friends and family. Guests are invited for dinner and a variety of scrumptious dishes are prepared. The guests are served with roasted lamb and pork with loaves of bread which are integral parts of Christmas dinner in Greece. <br /><br />During this time of the year people sing and dance to the tunes of the carol. Many children travel from one house to another singing ‘Kalanda’. These children are presented with sweets and coins. On the eve of Christmas people exchange presents which are either kept beneath the Christmas tree or hung on the artificial branches. On Christmas day these presents are opened. At the end of the day the families gather for a community dinner. <br /><br />Besides, there are quite a number of other rituals to keep the bad spirits away. There are a number of beliefs among the common people connected with these spirits. These creatures are believed to be species of goblins and appear during the 12-day period following Christmas to the Epiphany.Christmas in Greece is a celebration time when people shed off their grievances and make up for their past act of unkindness.Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13654129877180049501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-7056901922620751312012-11-28T21:06:26.800+04:002012-11-28T21:06:26.800+04:00Christmas Celebrations in Philippines
Since Philip...Christmas Celebrations in Philippines<br />Since Philippines is one of the major Catholic countries in Asia, Christmas in Philippines is a great time for the country. The Christmas in Philippines is celebrated over a long period of time and comprises one of the largest holidays in its calendar.<br />Christmas in Philippines is celebrated by a number of ethnic groups in a diversity of ways which the tourist will greatly enjoy along his Philippines Tours. Among them the first in importance and popularity are the Christmas parties celebrated in the urban areas of the nation which is principally held in the second week of December. It is accompanied by a range of activities like the Kris Kringle, dancing and music, plays as well as parlor games in schools. The Philippines Christmas is initiated by the traditional Misa de Gallo which are nine day masses held in the dawn starting from 16th of December.<br /><br />The Filipino families after the masses are completed also partake in the traditional delicacies associated with Christmas for breakfast or directly after mass when they are also sold by vendors. Some of them are bibingka which is rice flour with the mixture of an egg based cake, puto bumbong, essentially a purple sticky rice delicacy, tsokolate or thick Spanish cocoa and salabat which is hot ginger tea. There are also a lot of celebrations on Christmas Eve when there is Holiday in Philippines which the tourist must enjoy along his Philippines Travel. <br /><br />After the midnight mass there is a Christmas Eve feast with Chocolate drinks and Christmas Ham as well as the exchange of various presents during this time. Catholic devotees in the numerous schools and provinces also celebrate the occasion by enacting the journey of Joseph and the Blessed Virgin Mary searching for lodging for the birth of Christ. This is part of a street pageant which is performed after darkness accompanied by folksongs and other local introductions and thus integrating the Christmas celebrations with the local culture. <br /><br />Finally Philippines Christmas is celebrated within the family after midnight with Misa de Aguinaldo or the midnight mass celebrating the holy occasion of the birth of Christ. Facts about Philippines also indicate the tradition where the family meets up with their elders of the extended family in order to pay their respects. Christmas carols and feasts along with giving gifts are the primary components of the celebration of Christmas in Philippines.Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13654129877180049501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-36882764758776378532012-11-28T21:02:38.598+04:002012-11-28T21:02:38.598+04:00Christmas Celebrations in Yemen
Christmas in Yemen...Christmas Celebrations in Yemen<br />Christmas in Yemen is celebrated with great fun and enjoyment. Though Yemen is mainly a Muslim country, it is home to many Christians who celebrate Christmas.<br />Christmas is also an officially declared public holiday. In the country of Yemen, the Christmas celebrations are rejoiced in the Churches by the Christian people. So, if you want to enjoy your holidays in Yemen, then Christmas in Yemen will be the most stunning festival to enjoy. <br /><br />The Yemeni people understand the actual meaning of Christmas, thus Christmas in Yemen is celebrated with great fervor. They believe that Jesus came into the earth as a baby on this day. The festival of Christmas in Yemen starts on the previous day and it is celebrated as the Christmas Eve. This Christmas evening is exulted with all night service that features worship, advocating and articles carried out by diverse groups such as children and young people. The children enchant the bible verses to speak it out publicly on Christmas day at Church. The same is done by the women to rejoice Christmas in Yemen. At the Christmas Eve, every language group decks up and sings several songs in their language. <br /><br />On the Christmas Day in Yemen, the native people organize bonfire. The bonfire is lit in front of the churchyard. The bishop, channeling a figure of the Baby Jesus guides the entire service of bonfire. Later the Bishop consecrates the people with a touch, which is known as the "touch of peace." <br /><br />After the celebration of Christmas in Yemen is ended, the crowds of the women come to the Church and travels around to diverse courtyards to sing, welcome people and dance. The Church choir also does the same. If they come to your house, then it is normal to give a small gift of money to the people visiting your home. This is performed after Christmas Carol Singing. All the people do not give and receive gifts at Christmas in Yemen. <br /><br />The occasion of Christmas in Yemen is marked by good food and long prayer services. To spend your vacation this season, you can come to Yemen on 25th December. Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/13654129877180049501noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-54825636949057935332012-11-28T10:48:32.451+04:002012-11-28T10:48:32.451+04:00Christmas in India.
The festival of Christmas c...Christmas in India. <br /><br />The festival of Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and conveys his message of love, tolerance and brotherhood. It's a celebration of humanity and mankind. Though Christmas is a primary festival of the Christian calendar but still it has a special significance in everyone's life. It is celebrated as a universal festival through out the nation. The first mention of 25th December as the birth date of Jesus occurred in 336 A.D. in an early Roman calendar. That day onwards this date is celebrated as the birth date of Jesus. In India this festival has a special significance since India is known for its unity in diversity worldwide. The celebration of Christmas shows that even people from different religion takes part in Christmas celebration just as the Indian Christians do. And because of European influence on the country for so long the religion has spread across the country. The doctrines and philosophies of Christianity converted people of many sects to Christianity and today, there is a large Christian community thriving in India that has adopted the Christians festivals as a part of Indian culture as well. However, many of the rituals of these Christian festivals have been modified to suit the climatic conditions of the land.<br /><br />Christmas is the most important festival of Indian Christians. Christians in India decorate banana or mango trees instead of traditional pine tree. They also light small oil-burning lamps as Christmas decorations and fill their churches with red flowers. As a part of their celebration they give Christmas gifts to their family members and token of money to poor people as charity. People decorate their houses and churches with poinsettia flowers for the midnight mass. In South India, the Christians put small clay lamps on the rooftops and walls of their houses at Christmas, just as the Hindus do during their festival called Diwali. In Goa, all hotels are jampacked during Christmas period and one must plan well in advance if planning a stay in one of the Goa hotels. The local Indian customs and tradition and customs have a heavy impact on the Indian Christian. And this is visible in their decoration as many Indian Christians decorate their houses with mango leaves. Churches often have an Evening Service on Christmas and are fabulously decorated with poinsettias and candles. Caroling processions on streets and thoroughfares can also be seen.Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/18147636240964411645noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-61961562941584510112012-11-28T10:47:14.110+04:002012-11-28T10:47:14.110+04:00Christmas in Cuba
Christmas in Cuba is one of the...Christmas in Cuba<br /><br />Christmas in Cuba is one of the most joyous occasions in the country and observed with great fun and festivity. Following the declaration of Cuba as an atheist nation in 1962, the festival was removed from list of holidays of Cuban calendar in the year 1969 when Fidel Castro decided it was interfering with the sugar harvest festival. Cuban authorities banned the public display of Christmas trees and nativity scenes, other than in places frequented by tourists, such as hotels. But in 1997, President Castro restored the holiday to honor, in the honor of the visit of Pope John Paul II in the island.<br /><br />With Christmas coming back to its former glory, a large Mass is now held in Havana's Revolution Square. Thousands of Cubans worship at midnight Masses, as church bells ring out across Havana at the stroke of the midnight hour signifying the transition from Christmas Eve to Christmas Day. Giant-sized TV screens are set up in the square outside Havanna's cathedral so that crowds can watch the Pope celebrate Christmas Mass at St. Peter's in Rome.<br /><br />Cubans celebrate Christmas with much enthusiasm and revelry. Gifts are a major highlight of Christmas celebrations in Cuba. Since the occassion signifies spreading love and happiness among fellow human beings, gifts are an inseperable part of the festivities. Those who can afford it try to make a special meal and decorate their houses, and church-going Christians attend services. Cubans spend the days before Christmas buying beans, bananas, fruits and other foods and gifts in preparation for their holiday festivities. Houses are beautifully decorated for Christmas. Dazzling lights, beautiful Christmas tree, balloons, gifts, toys, bells, stars are the major components of Christmas celebrations.<br /><br /><br />Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/18147636240964411645noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-11252011069220094402012-11-28T10:45:40.891+04:002012-11-28T10:45:40.891+04:00Christmas In Finland
In Finland, Christmas is cel...Christmas In Finland<br /><br />In Finland, Christmas is celebrated from 24th to 26th of December. Preparations for the festival begin from approximately a month ago with many Finnish people buying the Christmas tree, decorative items and gifts and goodies for the season. Houses are cleaned and special treats like gingerbread cookies and prune tarts prepared for the oncoming festive season.<br /><br />The first Sunday in December (also called the First Advent) starts the Finnish Christmas season. Christmas lights begin to appear in the stores along with gifts, goods and goodies for the festival. Children count the days to the festival making their own Christmas calendar with some great pictures related to the Christmas theme or even some chocolate caramel.<br /><br />In Finland the Christmas tree is set up on Christmas Eve. Fir trees are felled, tied onto sleds, and taken home to be decorated beautifully with candies, paper flags, cotton, tinsel, apples and other fruits. Candles are used for lighting the trees. Many women make a visit to some local sauna to groom themselves for the occassion.<br /><br />Christmas here is replete with different homegrown customs. In Finnish rural areas, it is a popular tradition for farmers to tie a sheaf of grain, nuts and seeds on a pole and placing it in the garden for the birds to feed on. Only after birds eat their dinner, the farmers partake of their Christmas dinner.<br /><br />Christmas dinner traditionally begins in Finland with the appearance of the first star in the sky. Dinner is served between 5-7 pm, and consists usually of roasted pig or a roasted ham and vegetables. The main dish is boiled codfish, served white and fluffy, along with allspice, boiled potatoes, and cream sauce. A week ahead of the dinner, the codfish is soaked in a lye solution to soften it. Once the dinner is complete, children head straight to bed while adults chat and drink coffee until about midnight. Other important traditions of the day consist of a visit to the Christmas mass. Many Finnish families also visit cemeteries to remember the dead and have porridge for lunch. Joyful carols and local Christmas songs also form an essential part of Christmas Eve festivities.<br /><br />On Christmas Day, church services start out early at six in the morning. Most people visit families and friends. Family get-togethers are the high point of this day. Christmas cards are being exchanged and everyone wishes another "Hyvaa Joulua", meaning "Merry Christmas" in Finnish.<br /><br />Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/18147636240964411645noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-82001042004518797162012-11-28T10:41:01.600+04:002012-11-28T10:41:01.600+04:00
Christmas in Turkey
We would like to use the Chr...<br />Christmas in Turkey<br /><br />We would like to use the Christmas season as a reason to invite you to a very special exotic trip. Since we receive our goods (costumes, veils, shoes, jewelery, etc.) from suppliers from all over the world, we would like to take you with us on a tour through the countries of origin of our goods, of belly dancing itself and of the oriental culture. This is why we put together a very special Christmas gift for you. It contains information on the different international Christmas traditions and on the ways Christmas is celebrated in countries abroad. It goes without saying that we focus on the countries of the Orient and Asia. This is why we would like to introduce you to Christmas in India, Egypt and Turkey. Please accompany us on an exciting tour through international Christmas traditions and let yourself be carried away by the pleasant anticipation filling the air before Christmas.<br /><br /><br />„Noeliniz Ve Yeni Yiliniz Kutlu Olsun“ – this is how you say „Merry Christmas“ in Turkish. However, Christmas in Turkey cannot be compared to our ideas of a traditional Christmas celebration. Indeed, you can buy Christmas trees in every major supermarket; the streets, shops and houses are festively decorated and the loudspeakers in the shopping malls fill the air with the sound of international Christmas carols. Despite all that, however, December 24th and 25th are completely normal work days. No one celebrates or exchanges gifts.<br />For the Turkish, December 31st is the “Great Day”. On this day they celebrate “Yýl-babý”, the “head of the year”. In Istanbul, the biggest Turkish citiy, this holiday traditionally starts on the Taksim square in the heart of the city. Several thousand people meet at this central meeting point in order to dance to the music of the New Year’s Concert and to see the big fireworks.<br />Often times, people celebrate on the roof gardens over the Istanbul Straight. Traditional food such as turkey filled with chestnuts is served and the children get small gifts. A very interesting tradition in Turkey is that women often times receive red underwear as a symbol of luck. On New Year’s Eve the big lottery draw takes place which contains a first prize of up to 20 million euro.<br /><br />By the way:<br />St. Nicholas, the person we celebrate on December 6 – on Saint Nicholas’ Day - , was born in Patara, a small town in Turkey and spent a big part of his life there. He was bishop of Myra, another Turkish town which is called Demre nowadays. During his lifetime already he was known for his generosity, his humanity as well as for his love for children. The word is that he always had his pockets filled with sweets that he handed out to the children in the streets. For this reason he is celebrated even today on St. Nicholas’ Day.Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/18147636240964411645noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-37432619436011356032012-11-28T10:37:45.448+04:002012-11-28T10:37:45.448+04:00Christmas in Korea.
Christianity is relatively ne...Christmas in Korea.<br /><br />Christianity is relatively new to Asia, but today about 30% of the South Korean population is Christian. Christmas (Sung Tan Jul) is celebrated by Christian families and is also a public holiday (even though Korea is officially Buddhist). Korea is the only East Asian country to recognize Christmas as a national holiday.<br /><br />Christmas Traditions<br /><br />Korean Christians celebrate Christmas similar to the way it's celebrated in the West, but since it's primarily a religious holiday in Korea, there is considerably less fanfare and presents. Some families do put up Christmas trees, people exchange presents, and stores do put up holiday decorations, but the festivities start much closer to Christmas day. Families may attend mass or a church service on Christmas Eve or Christmas day (or both), and caroling parties are popular for young Christians on Christmas Eve.<br /><br />Grandpa Santa is popular with kids in Korea (Santa Harabujee) and he wears either a red or blue santa suit. Kids know him as a happy grandfather figure who gives out presents, and stores employ Santas to greet shoppers and hand out chocolate and candies. People in Korea usually exchange presents on Christmas Eve and instead of piles of presents, one present (or a gift of money) is customary.<br /><br />Christmas Meals and Christmas Day<br /><br />Some families celebrate Christmas with meals and gatherings at homes, but Koreans also celebrate Christmas by going out. Restaurants are busy on Christmas, as it is considered a romantic holiday for couples, and theme parks and shows have special Christmas events. Many younger people celebrate and party on Christmas with friends and spend New Year's Day with their families (the reverse to Christmas/New Year's in the West). For non-Christian Koreans, Christmas is a popular shopping day.Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/18147636240964411645noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-81564695978540487842012-11-28T10:24:30.968+04:002012-11-28T10:24:30.968+04:00
Christmas in Venezuela
In Venezuela on D...<br /> Christmas in Venezuela<br /><br /> In Venezuela on December 16th families bring out their pesebres which is a specially designed and thought out depiction of the nativity scene.<br /><br /> It is a custom to attend at one of nine carol services is observed by most Venezuelans. Firecrackers explode and bells ring to call worshippers from bed in the predawn hours. The last of the masses takes place on Nochebuena de Navidad Christmas Eve. Families attend a mass on this night and then return home to a huge and fancy dinner.<br /><br /> On January 6th when the children awaken they will discover that the straw that they had left beside their bed the night before has gone and in its place are gifts the children know that the Magi and their camels have been and when they go to look in the mirror if they have a black smudge on their cheek they know that Balthazar, King of the Ethiopians has kissed them whilst they slept.Anastasia Streltsovahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06173608756275106959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-36805510245407505672012-11-28T10:24:09.567+04:002012-11-28T10:24:09.567+04:00Christmas in Iran (Persia)
Christmas in Iran is k...Christmas in Iran (Persia)<br /><br />Christmas in Iran is known as the Little Feast. For the first 25 days of December, a great fast is observed, during which no meat, eggs, milk, or cheese is eaten. It is a time of peace and meditation; a time for attending services at the church. When the fast is over, the feast is begun, for plenty of meat is prepared for the Christmas dinner.<br /><br />Christmas Eve is the last day of the fast. Almost before dawn on Christmas Day, the people attend Mass to receive Communion and it is not until they have received this Communion that they are permitted to break fast.<br /><br />The boys and girls of Iran have never heard of Santa Claus, so they do not exchange gifts at Christmas. But they do receive new clothes, which they proudly wear all during the happy Christmas week.<br /><br />A dish eaten for Christmas day is a kind of chicken stew. It is cooked in large quantities and lasts several days.Anastasia Streltsovahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06173608756275106959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-2895480614729515412012-11-28T10:23:52.803+04:002012-11-28T10:23:52.803+04:00Christmas in China
The Christian children of Chin...Christmas in China<br /><br />The Christian children of China decorate trees with colorful ornaments. These ornaments are made from paper in the shapes of flowers, chains and lanterns. They also hang muslin stockings hoping that Christmas Old Man will fill them with gifts and treats.<br /><br />The Chinese Christmas trees are called "Trees of Light." Santa Claus is called Dun Che Lao Ren which means "Christmas Old Man.".<br /><br />The non-Christian Chinese call this season the Spring Festival and celebrate with many festivities that include delicious meals and pay respects to their ancestors. The children are the main focus of these celebrations, they receive new clothes and toys, eat delectable food and watch firecrackers displays.Anastasia Streltsovahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06173608756275106959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-3138608615214813652012-11-28T10:23:36.733+04:002012-11-28T10:23:36.733+04:00Christmas in Australia
Christmas in Australia is ...Christmas in Australia<br /><br />Christmas in Australia is often very hot. Whereas the northern hemisphere is in the middle of winter, Australians are baking in summer heat. It is not unusual to have Christmas Day well into the mid 30 degrees Celsius, or near 100 degrees Fahrenheit.<br /><br />A traditional meal includes a turkey dinner, with ham, and pork. A flaming Christmas plum pudding is added for dessert. In the Australian gold rushes, Christmas puddings often contained a gold nugget. Today a small favor is baked inside. Whoever finds this knows s/he will enjoy good luck. Another treat is Mince Pies.<br /><br />Some Australians and particularly tourists often have their Christmas dinner at midday on a local beach, Bondi Beach in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs attracts thousands of people on Christmas Day. Other families enjoy their day by having a picnic. If they are at home, the day is punctuated by swimming in a pool, playing Cricket out the backyard, and other outdoor activities.<br /><br />The warm weather allows Australians to enjoy a tradition which commenced in 1937. Carols by Candlelight is held every year on Christmas Eve, where tens of thousands of people gather in the city of Melbourne to sing their favorite Christmas songs. The evening is lit by as many candles singing under a clean cut night sky. The sky with its Southern Cross stars is like a mirror. Sydney and the other capital cities also enjoy Carols in the weeks leading up to Christmas.<br /><br />Australians surround themselves with Christmas Bush, a native plant which has little red flowered leaves.<br /><br />Christmas shopping is often done in shorts and t-shirts. At many beaches Santa Claus arrives on a surfboard, or even on a surf lifesaving boat.<br /><br />Australia's worst Christmas was in 1974, when Cyclone Tracy devastated Darwin in the Northern Territory. More than 60 people were killed.Anastasia Streltsovahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06173608756275106959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-73006223748386481942012-11-28T10:23:10.190+04:002012-11-28T10:23:10.190+04:00Christmas in Canada
Christmas celebrations ar...Christmas in Canada<br /><br /> Christmas celebrations are quite similar in the variety to America.<br /><br /> In some provinces, a big winter festival, called Sinck tuck, is celebrated by the Eskimos, with dancing and a present-giving party.<br /><br /> In Labrador, turnips are saved from the summer harvest and are given to children, with a lighted candle pushed into a hollowed out hole.<br /><br /> In Nova Scotia, a country settled by Scottish highlanders, songs and carols brought from Britain two centuries ago are sung each Christmas morning.<br /><br /> Also in Nova Scotia, during the twelve days of Christmas small groups of belsnicklers, or masked mummers, appear in neighborhoods, ringing bells, making noise, seeking candy or other treats. The hosts may try to guess who the mummers are and if they guess right the mummer removes his or her disguise and stops making rude noises and actions. Children may be quizzed by the mummers on their behavior if they say they have been good they are rewarded with candy.<br /><br /> In Quebec they display Crиches or nativity scenes in their homes as the Christmas decorations. After attending midnight mass, families may be served tourtiere or pork pie. Another favorite food is Boulettes or small meatballs. A Christmas banquet is called a reveillon.<br /><br /> In British Columbia Christmas turkey may be accompanied by either fresh or smoked salmon.<br /><br /> In Canada the traditional Christmas dinner is roast turkey with vegetables and sauces. For dessert it is rich, fruity Christmas pudding with brandy sauce. Mince pies, pastry cases filled with a mixture of chopped dried fruit.<br /><br /> Masked mummers are a Christmas tradition from Newfoundland.<br /><br />Anastasia Streltsovahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06173608756275106959noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-24970682554098620502012-11-28T10:00:17.995+04:002012-11-28T10:00:17.995+04:00Christmas In Greenland
Christmas is a very impor...Christmas In Greenland <br /><br />Christmas is a very important festival in Greenland. It has unique customs and ways of celebrating the Yuletide season. Families in this part of the world, mainly the villagers of Polar Inuit, like to party, meet each other and exchange gifts during Christmas. It is considered a tradition to gift people with sledges which are pairs of polished tusks. It is almost certain that everyone in the village will receives a gift during Christmas. One can very well say that the celebrations of Christmas in Greenland are quite different from the way it is celebrated in other countries. Traditional Christmas celebrations start off on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. As the countdown towards the main eve of the festival begins, decorations and candles are put up everywhere and stars are hung on most of the windows of houses and public buildings. The streets are well-lit and shops and houses are magnificently decorated. Read on to know how Christmas is celebrated in Greenland. <br /><br />Christmas Customs From Greenland<br /><br />Christmas Eve <br /> Most people attend Christmas services in their traditional outfits. The men wear white anoraks on the eve of Christmas. During Christmas, children sing in front of houses and people generously give them Christmas goodies in return.<br /><br />The Christmas Tree<br /> Christmas trees are imported from Denmark. Christmas trees are not grown in Greenland, owing to its proximity to the Arctic Circle. Imported Christmas trees are decorated with candles and ornaments by the 23rd of December. Sealskin is hung beside the trees with hearts. Since not everyone can afford importing a tree, others will simply decorate a driftwood tree with heather. The stars and decorations are not taken off until the 6th of January.<br /><br />The Christmas Feast<br /> During Christmas in Greenland, Mattak is eaten a lot. It basically is blubber contained inside the skin of a whale. It tastes similar to fresh coconut but it is difficult to chew and swallow. 'Kiviak', influenced by Eskimo culture is also eaten during Christmas. It basically is the raw flesh of auks, a type of arctic bird. The flesh that is buried in sealskin for several months until a certain level of decomposition is reached. 'Suaasat' is a barbecued caribou soup and has berries and apples with a crisp topping making for the sweet part of the feast. A lot of Danish pastries are served and are particularly craved for during Christmas. The most sought after delicacy in Greenland is the Christmas cake and people have a gala time relishing homemade cake and mulled wine.<br /><br />Christmas Traditions In Greenland<br /> On Christmas nights men serve women their food and also pour them coffee. The dinner is followed by games and dancing throughout the night. The children enjoy the festival and also value their Christmas gifts for life. Greenland is believed to be Santa's home or probably even the place he visits during the summer. The place Santa Claus is supposed to visit is believed to be towards the north of the country in Spraglebugten, near Uummannaq. Children often write letters to Santa, making requests or asking for gifts. Greenland hushes down after Christmas celebrations and prepares for New Year's Eve. People in Greenland celebrate 'New Year' twice. This is because in Greenland, by eight in the night, it is New Year's Day in Denmark and at midnight, it is New Year's Day in Greenland.Елизаветаhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01937946732061068493noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-492337578292102061.post-31037409533007424792012-11-28T09:59:32.274+04:002012-11-28T09:59:32.274+04:00Christmas In Ethiopia
Ethiopia is one of the old...Christmas In Ethiopia <br /><br />Ethiopia is one of the oldest countries in Africa and one of the very few where the ancient Julian calendar, in accordance to the Coptic Church, is still followed. This means that here, Christmas is celebrated on 7th January instead of 25th December; and Christmas holidays are referred to as 'Ye Ganna Bal' which means "the Birth of Christ". On this day, attending church is a strict religious observance rather than just being a holiday formality. The day is celebrated in good spirit and there is a lot of vigor in the air. This colorful festival can go on for days, at times. Family and friends get together to indulge in good food, church services and traditional games. Ethiopia is a vast country comprising of more than eighty languages and cultures; no doubt then that the traditions are very diverse. Ethiopian Christmas is an amalgam of many different customs. Read on to learn more about the Ethiopian ways of celebrating Christmas. <br /><br />Ethiopian Christmas Customs<br /><br />Christmas Eve<br /> On January 6th, Ethiopian Christmas Eve, people observe a fast. The city is crowded with pilgrims praying, chanting and singing carols on the streets. The fast is broken the next day at dawn, followed by a colorful procession. <br /><br />White's the Colour<br /> For the mass, everyone is clad in a thin, white cotton traditional cloth called the "Shamma" which has bright stripes at the end. This garment is worn like a toga, however urban Ethiopians just wear white western attire. The priests wear turbans, red-white robes and carry colorful fringed umbrellas. <br /><br />The Mass<br /> Masses are conducted in ancient churches as well as the modern ones; the modern churches are designed with three concentric circles. In modern churches, the choir assembles in the outer circle. Each person entering the church is given a candle and they collect in the second circle. The men are separated from the women in this congregation. The center-most circle is the holiest of all and this is where the priests assemble. The mass can last for as long as three hours or probably even more. <br /><br />Traditional Games<br /> As 'Ganna' is more about religious observances, gifts aren't really an integral part of the season. Other than new clothes, the children don't receive much. Instead, food and games are the major highlights. A lot of traditional games are played this season. The men and boys play a game called 'ganna' which is played with a curved stick and a round wooden ball. Another Christmas sport played is called 'yeferas suk' in which the men ride on horseback and shoot lances at each other. <br /><br />'Ganna' Delicacies<br /> Ethiopian Christmas feast includes dishes like "Doro Wat", "Injera" and homemade wine or beer. The Doro Wat is a spicy stew containing vegetables and meat. Purchasing a goat or cow, and slaughtering it for the stew, is a part of the preparations too. Injera is a flat round sourdough bread which is used for serving food thereby, replacing utensils. The Doro Wat is served in beautifully decorated baskets. <br /><br />Timkat-A Post Celebration <br /> Twelve days after Ganna, on January 19th, Ethiopians celebrate a festival called Timkat. This is like a continuation of 'Ganna' and it marks the baptism of Christ. Just like on Ganna, "Shamma" is worn by the people on Timkat also. A special percussion instrument with metal disks, called the sistrum, makes the procession for Timkat that much more festive. <br /><br /> A different world and certainly a very different way of celebrating Christmas is what Christmas in Ethiopia is all about. Here's hoping the information on Ethiopian Christmas customs has enlightened you on the different ways of how Christmas is celebrated.Елизаветаhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01937946732061068493noreply@blogger.com