Preparations for the forthcoming festival of Christmas have gained momentum in the twin cities as the Christian community is all set to celebrate the festival with religious fervor across the country.
With each passing day till the eve of Christmas, the Christian community prepares for the festivity and feels the echo of the church bells that announce the birth of Jesus Christ.
The traditions related to Christmas, included decoration of Christmas tree, Santa Claus, carols and Christmas gifts.
Minister for Interfaith Harmony and Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf says the government through the Ministry of Interfaith Harmony and provincial departments had started distributing funds and gifts among the deserving in the Christian community across the country.
“On this auspicious occasion, we should follow the philosophy of Jesus Christ that was based on love, brotherhood, peace and harmony to deal with the issues like terrorism and extremism,” he adds.
From official gatherings to cake-cutting ceremonies in small communities, this joyous occasion fills the atmosphere with colours, symbols and traditions of Christmas.
Groups of young boys and girls are preparing carols to present on the Christmas Day in melodious tones to celebrate the Christmas functions that bring people together to feast, pray and celebrations.
Costumed in bright red colour with snowy white fur, the jolly white-bearded man known as Santa Claus serves as the most-enchanting tradition and attraction during Christmas festivities.
Youngsters and children seem exciting while waiting for Santa Claus as his vibrant outfit of red coat with white collar and cuffs, white-cuffed red trousers, and black leather belt and boots spreads joy on their faces.
Christmas tree which is considered as main ritual of the Christmas celebrations to welcome the arrival of Santa Claus adds more charisma to the festivity of Christmas with its colorful decorative look.
On Christmas, the X-mas tree is usually decked with different ornaments, including baubles, small bells painted in golden or silver, stars of different shapes and sizes, pine cones, apples, candies, tinsel and balloons made from glass, metal, wood and ceramic. An angel and star is often placed at the top of the tree representing the host of angels.