Christmas Traditions :

Despite the wartime paper shortage, over 6 million copies had been distributed by 1946. The Christmas holiday abounds in interesting customs and traditions. It is the time for soul-searching, spiritual renewal, silent prayers, reading out quotes from the Bible, seeking religious blessings and wishing joys and good tidings to everyone for the days to come. For instance, the tradition of giving Christmas gifts is one of the commonest traditions of the holiday irrespective of region or country.

Christmas around the World :
Louisiana's treat is Creole Gumbo. In the old times, sugar was very expensive; therefore, Christmas cakes were a luxury. While possibly the most "popular" Christian holiday, Christmas has also evolved into a secular celebration. Less ominous than it appears, each group of boys and its respective Alikali Devil costume is sponsored and maintained throughout the year by local civic organizations.

Portugal : Portuguese Christmas is much in the same street as Christmas in Spain. Whatever gifts Father Christmas brings to the kids, are kept at the base of the Christmas evergreen or in shoes by the fireplace. At midnight on Christmas Eve, the Portuguese have a special Christmas meal of dry and salted cod-fish and boiled potatoes. And in the early morning of the Christmas day, they have a meal called ‘consoada’, where seats are left empty at the table for the ‘alminhas a penar’ or the ‘souls of the dead’. This comes from the ancient practice of leaving seeds to the dead ancestors in hopes of getting rewarded with a more bountiful harvest. So boas festas ! Have a great party this Christmas and New Year !

Real Christmas trees used to come only from the forest, but now you can find them on tree farms and from popular retailers who ship them in to sell directly to consumers. Oh what fun it is to gather together, play Christmas carols, and adorn the tree with garland, beads and ornaments. The heart of all holiday decorating is with the beloved Christmas tree, which represents spiritual inspiration and a wonderful family tradition. If you use your artificial tree for several years, you'll save a great deal of money.