Here's a glimpse of how some people living in Malta, and abroad spend Christmas-time.
Rebecca Janssens
Christmas in our house is more about the weeks of preparation and build up. We take those weeks to spend even more time together, doing special seasonal things. We make home-made decorations, explore different Christmas markets, go ice skating, bake gingerbread, and watch holiday movies. Christmas eve is spent with my husband's family. We're starting a new tradition where each year is spent at a different family member's house. That way the "work" is shared and every year is different, I'm really looking forward to it! Though I do insist on still doing my share of the dessert making. After the big family gathering on the eve, Christmas day at home is all about quiet, cozy quality time. We open presents in the morning, and whip up a pancake breakfast together. The afternoon is spent enjoying the gifts we received, playing games and Skyping with my family and friends overseas. Somewhere between all the fun, I manage to get a nice dinner put together for my in-laws who join us every year.
Eric Maramieri
As far back as I can remember my family has always gathered together on Christmas eve for dinner. Being part Italian, this meant a massive feast of every type of seafood imaginable. My particular favourite was always breaded shrimp, so my grandmother always made sure there was a second helping hidden away just for me. Even now that the family has been split between Canada and Malta, we still try to keep this tradition going as best we can.
Stephanie Camilleri
I typically spend Christmas by myself. I don’t have any family members that live close, so I try to keep myself busy during the day. This may be difficult at times because most places are closed for business. After I speak to my mom in the morning I tend to either go fetch some food, sit at a café and read, or catch a movie. This year may be a bit different because I was invited to my friend's house for a celebration. I am really excited to be spending Christmas Eve with a friend for a sleepover. All in all, for me it’s just an average day with a side of “weird” because you see no one in the streets, almost like the apocalypse hit!
Nadia Toutoungi
As a Muslim I do not celebrate Christmas. However, I appreciate the beautiful decorations that are set up around the island for the occasion. Living in Malta since birth, I am familiar with Christmas time. As a child I looked forward to this season because it meant no school. As an adult Christmas means an extra day off from work. It is a day like any other for me. I notice that people are friendlier, more cheerful and generous this time of year. I wish that this general feeling lasted throughout the year rather than just a couple of weeks.