By Pradeep Kumar

The story of Christmas or the mass of Christ dates back to the birth of baby Jesus Christ in Bethlehem. It is undeniably one of the most popular winter celebrations in the world. The first visible clues of the impending celebration of Christmas start dropping in by October when frenzied shopping and decorations welcome the onset of winter.

 Come December and the celebration is very much in the air; shimmering lights bathing the streets, Christmas trees decorated with colorful add-ons and twinkling Xmas stars, the aroma of freshly baked ginger cakes and cookies wafting through the innumerable chimneys and a deluge of friends and relatives who make a goodwill visit to their brethren- everything speaks for Christmas.  Markets hum with avid Xmas shoppers shop till they drop rummaging through the countless stores that offer the  latest clothes, tree decorations, cakes, wine and fire crackers,

The season’s spirit reaches its crescendo as the D day draws in, when the streets will be crowded with people on their way to attend the midnight mass or to hobnob at the various shopping malls to get a feel of the pulse of the festivities. The best part of Christmas is that it falls in the winter season when the nature is in its best with the specks of snow to add charm and notches up the partying mood to feverish pitch. If a white Christmas is on the cards you can take some time off the day to enjoy sledding, make a huge snow Santa or indulge in a snowball fight. Whichever course you wish to take, do not forget to gloss it off by serving piping hot chocolate.

The mere mention of Christmas is enough to summon the image of the famous icon of Santa Claus in snow white beard and red attire, Christmas carols and creamy rich cakes! However in the break neck speed of today’s high technology world, Christmas traditions are gradually being lost. But don’t you think that the traditional Christmas with all the merriment and grandeur of the old days was the perfect time to slow things down and to plunge into the party mood? It’s a time for a family get together or a well deserved vacation for many.

Usher in the Christmas spirit by going all out in decorating the Christmas tree. The traditional crib of the Jesus with the wax or glass models of the three kings and the other characters forming an inevitable part of the decorations. Not forgetting the Christmas music and lip smacking eggnog that would ensure everyone the right spirit. No Christmas is complete without a grand feast. Turkeys, a variety of meat preparations, soups, cookies, pies, and hot cider are all staples for a heady Christmas celebration.

Then there is always the Santa Claus to hand over the Xmas presents for everyone in the family. The Christmas evening offers the best possible options; you can either choose a quiet evening by the fireplace or set out on a holiday to some remote island. Remember, the bottom line of all festivities is to ensure fun, frolic and merriment.