Europe is home to many Catholic cities in the world. Therefore one can imagine the magnitude at which Christmas in Europe is celebrated here. Though 25th December is the day when Lord Jesus is said to have been born to Virgin Mary, festivities begin much prior to this date and the entire continent converts itself into one large fairly land. With all the ‘Cribs’ and ‘Nativity Scene’ adorning every corner of this continent, one is simply transformed to Bethlehem, the place where Jesus was born.
For a tourist visiting Europe around Christmas, there are a number of places one could add in the itinerary depending upon the traditions, practices and ways of celebrating the festival that might appeal. The weather here around this time is chilly with snowfall in nearly all every part of the continent; Christmas in Europe is a treat to the visitor.
In Western European countries like Germany, this festival has been observed since times immemorial. It is also believed to be responsible for the popularity of the Christmas tree all over the world. In France, the highlight of the celebration is the ‘Nativity Scene’, where clay figurines depicting the shepherds and Magi and also local Celebrities feature in nearly every household.
People across Europe practice the attending of the Midnight Mass in Churches and Cathedrals. This Mass is generally followed by late supper at home where the entire family gets together and make merry.
Exchanging gifts is another significant feature of celebrating Christmas in Europe. Different nations give away gifts and presents to the loved ones on different days.
While the Italians like to give away presents and gifts to their loved ones on the 12th day of Christmas as they believe that it was on this day that Little Jesus too received gifts from the wise men, the polish populace exchange their good wishes and gifts around midnight of Christmas Eve.
Many packages involving river cruises are designed around Christmas in Europe and the sounds of the fireworks and sights of the illuminated cities while on these tours have to be undertaken to be believed.
Travel.mapsofworld.com offers online information on Christmas in Europe. For more information, visit Travel.mapsofworld.com
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