When we think
about Christmas, we form a picture of a snow covered landscape and Santa Claus sleighing
through it!. But if you are in Paraguay your imagination about the festival will
change. It is summer and quite hot in the country in the month of December. But
that doesn’t mean people here don’t have fun on Christmas
Day.
Nature of celebration
Paraguay primarily
being a Christian country, the festival is celebrated with a lot of stress on its
religious aspect. Christian symbols can be seen at almost everywhere. Nativity
scenes may not only be seen in churches but also at many homes. People educate their
children about Jesus and his teachings.
Decoration
Churches, houses,
parks, squares are decorated with stars, Christmas trees, Santa Claus, lights
and other decorative items. Since it is summer during Christmas carnival in Paraguay, color fulflowers are also available
for decorating homes and churches.
Eating and partying
On Christmas Eve
people gather at churches for La Misa Del Gallo (Mass of the Rooster). After they
return home they enjoy Christmas with a grand feast with friends and family members.
Apart from feasting on delicacies, people also love to party and enjoy the moment.
In Paraguay Christmas lasts till January 6,
the feast of Epiphany.
