Christmas Cheer Warms Up December Chill

APP

Islamabad: Christmas is just around the corner, ready to bring warmth and cheer to the chilly December air.

The Christian community in the federal capital, much like worldwide, is bustling with early preparations to celebrate this festive season with enthusiasm.

As tradition dictates, the main markets and shops in the capital city have begun showcasing a delightful array of Christmas-themed decorations and accessories, captivating the community’s attention.

Meanwhile, confectionery stores and florists are primed to embrace the season, offering their finest treats and blossoms, anticipating a prosperous time ahead. The city is poised for a jubilant and lively celebration, with festive fervor decorating every corner, eagerly anticipating the arrival of this beloved holiday.

With December’s arrival, the Christian community embarks on their preparations, acquiring attire, footwear, and other essentials to honor the occasion in style. Amidst price hikes at main markets and malls, those facing financial constraints seek out flea markets, opting for second-hand clothing, ensuring their participation in this joyous festival.

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Samina Masih, a mother of three school-going children, expressed, “My husband, a cab driver, isn’t earning much. We’re barely managing the educational expenses and household needs.” “With prices soaring, buying new clothes and shoes for my children has become impossible. I’ve decided to explore the flea market for the occasion,” she shared.

For shopkeepers, the festival proves to be a boon, driving significant sales of festival-related essentials. “Christmas marks the pinnacle of the winter season for us shopkeepers. Selling decorative ornaments, chocolates, flowers, and bulk gift items enables us to generate substantial profits,” highlighted Abid Ali, a shop owner at F-7 Markaz.

He remarked optimistically, “This Christmas, we anticipate a thriving sale as many people prioritize gifting to share the festival’s joy.”

The festive spirit encompasses a range of activities, from community gatherings to cake-cutting ceremonies. The highlight of Christmas celebrations often revolves around decorating the Christmas tree, a customary gesture to welcome Santa Claus, also known as Father Christmas. Youngsters meticulously adorn the tree with an array of ornaments: baubles, small bells in gold or silver paint, stars of various shapes and sizes, pine cones, apples, candies, tinsel, and an assortment of balloons crafted from glass, metal, wood, and ceramic. Typically, an angel or star finds its place atop the tree, symbolizing a host of angels.

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“I always find joy in adorning the Christmas tree with unique ornaments at my office, organizing a cake-cutting ceremony, and engaging in gift exchanges, among other festivities,” shared Asiya, a government employee.

She added, “Sharing happiness during such occasions brings a sense of joy and fulfillment. As we visit the church, it’s important to collectively pray for the safety of all citizens and the progress of our country.”

Notably, stalls are cropping up outside the Katchi Abadis, where a significant portion of the Christian community resides. Here, stall owners showcase a diverse array of decorative ornaments and garments, attracting the attention of youngsters and children.

Christmas becomes a time where both young and old eagerly engage in tree decoration and gift-giving, expressing love to their family and friends. Celebrations encompass distributing gifts among children, singing hymns and prayers, and arranging heartwarming family gatherings.

The feature was released by APP.