Christmas falls in the middle of the Australian summer, which is hard for us in Europe to comprehend. Although Australia is very much a multi cultural society, the Christmas celebrations are very traditional. A Midnight mass to take in the spirituality of Christmas is attended by over 70% of the population. After a short sleep, Christmas day is very much party time. Friends and families gather and have their Christmas dinner together in the back yard. The British in Australia, still have their Turkey and Christmas pudding, albeit in 35 degree heat.

The Christmas events in Greece are very religious. Every Christmas eve, children go from door to singing special Christmas carols known as Kalanda. These songs bring good luck for the approaching New Year. The Christmas feast is much anticipated after a period of fasting. Large, sweet loaves known as Chrostopsomo, or Christ's bread are on every table. Presents are actually exchanged on January 1st, St Basil's day.

In Scandinavia a Yule log is burnt through the entire advent season. Everywhere you turn there is a gaily decorated Christmas trees. Gifts tend to be home made food items rather than expensive presents bought from stores. It is in these Nordic countries that the true essence of Christmas can really be felt.

Christmas in China is quite a low key affair. Instead of trees, homes are festooned with brightly coloured paper lanterns. As the vast majority of the population aren't Christians, they have their main celebration in the Chinese New Year, which is at the end of January. This is when the Chinese have the celebrations which we associate with Christmas.

Christmas in the USA is loud, busy and bright. Everything that can be lit up is festooned in lights. Although Christmas takes second place to Thanksgiving, it is still a cause of great celebration. The traditions of a Turkey Christmas dinner and the giving and receiving of gifts is widespread. There are Christmas day parades in all the major cities such as New York, which attract crowds of thousands.

A UK Christmas is extremely traditional. Trees are erected and decorated in early December. Christmas cards are sent out at around the same time. Christmas presents are wrapped and placed under the trees and stockings hung from fireplaces. Many go to midnight mass on Christmas Eve, whatever their religion. A big tradition is for the children to leave out a mince pie out for Santa and a carrot for Rudolph. Families gather for large dinners consisting of Turkey and many vegetables, followed by a Christmas pudding. This is usually soaked in Brandy then lit.

While the celebrations and events around the world may differ, the true meaning of Christmas should not. Have a happy and peaceful Christmas.

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