Christmas

The word Christmas originates from Ctistes Maesses, which is an early English phrase that stands for the mass of Christ. Today, Christmas is a much-awaited festival for families and friends to get together and exchange gifts and cards.

Christmas is a Christian holiday worshiping the birth of Jesus Christ who is believed to be the son of God. The celebrations of this festival take place on 25th December each year. This day has evolved two eras into a global secular and religious celebration.  It falls under the category of ‘Gazetted Holiday’.

The celebration is the most decipherable in states with more Christians. The celebration of Christmas comprises of several customs such as the exhibition of nativity sights, the arrival of Santa Claus and Christmas trees. Christmas is the major festival for Christians throughout the globe.

How the celebration of the Christmas festival takes place?

Christmas is a special festival for Indian Christians who celebrate this occasion by spending time with their families and friends. Also, attend special church services, prefer to eat festive meals and wear new clothes to make the occasion more special. The Christians sing carols, participate in special spiritual services, and decorate their houses with lights, flowers, Christmas trees, and mistletoe. They may exhibit trivial electrical lamps and decorate their houses with mango leaves or banana.

Many people who put up a genesis scene with a Christmas tree or clay figures. In India, Christmas trees are normally imitation pine trees or branches of native trees. A few malls or stores can put up Christmas decorations and have artists playing Santa. Churches throughout the country hold evening amenities before the Christmas day. At midnight, many churches hold special candlelight amenities. Santa Claus has been a special character in the Christmas celebration who offers gifts for children.

Top destination to go for celebrating Christmas holidays

Shillong: In Shillong, the Cathedral Church has been one of the oldest churches in North East India. The people from all over the world visit this city to attend the Midnight Mass.

Mumbai: It has been a great Indian destination to celebrate Christmas with friends and families. Malls offer attractive discounts. Bandra, Hill Road and Church Gate are the best localities to celebrate the festival in the city.

Pondicherry:  It has been the India’s finest destination for a traditional Christmas. The city is lovely decorated.

Lansdowne: It is the best Indian destination to celebrate Christmas holiday away from the crowd.

Kerala: In Kerala, every street has wonderful Christmas decorations to enlighten your mood.