Asia is the largest continent in the world. Owing to the large number of geographical divisions on its surface and the ethnic groups it houses, Asia has always been a delight to the western travelers who are interested in the culture and heritage of this place. Numerous festivals are observed here depending on the region, religion and cultural background and each has a touch and feel of its own. However a few of these festivities are commonly celebrated all across the continent; the birthday of lord Jesus being just one of them.
Though the Christians living here primarily celebrate Christmas in Asia, even the non-Christians hold the festival in high regard. The merry making and the fun element attract everyone to take a plunge into it.
A visit to the Church or Cathedral is a must on 24th of December, the Christmas Eve every year. All in the family attends the Midnight Mass. Both the Protestants and the Roman Catholic communities observe this day by preparing for it days in advance. Shops are decorated with artificial trees posing as the Christmas trees; Candles, lights and balloons too adorn most parts of the cities. Although it is cold in most parts of Asia around Christmas, the areas that do not receive snowfall have artificial snow sprayed over the decorations to give it that ‘authentic’ touch.
Everywhere ‘Father Christmas’ or the Santa Claus is the most respected and most awaited feature of Christmas in Asia. It is believed that he distributes gifts and goodies on the special day and therefore little children keep socks and boxes outside the house to be filled by him. Santa Claus usually comes on a sleigh run by the reindeers.
Although the fun element remains the same in most parts of Asia, the religious spectrum has a lot of variety in it. In Japan housing just 1% Christians out of the entire population, this day is observed by giving food and alms to the poor and other charity work. In countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh and India people like to visit their relatives and friends and offer gifts and greetings on the Christmas Day. It is referred to as the ‘Bara Din’ or the big day.
Baking of the cake and special Christmas goodies and Carol singing are mandatory to the celebrations of Christmas in Asia. There are other local festivals too that coincide with this festival in many parts of the continent and this makes Christmas in Asia all the more special and unique.
Travel.mapsofworld offers online information on Christmas in Asia. For more information, visit Travel.mapsofworld
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