Christmas at Home
Good old Christmas trees are set up at home and on important streets and malls which reflect the cheerful spirit of the festive season. The joyful bells hanging on the trees spread the message of peace and goodwill. Small gifts for loved ones are nestled below the Christmas tree. Miniature decorative pieces are placed on the tree adding beauty to it whereas the wax figurines tell the tale of Christmas in many a crib that is found outside churches, in schools and colleges and housing societies. Floating candles and the festoons of lights on the streets and homes add a twinkle to the Christmas air. The homes are also ornately decorated with trinkets, stars, stockings, ribbons and bells. The families prepare a wonder Roasted Turkey and Salmon for lunch or dinner and team it up with Red or White wine. They gorge on the wonderful marzipans, rose cookies, marshmallows, plum cakes and kul kuls and mint flavored lemonade. Family reunions are still popular especially in Christian dominated areas.Christmas at the Marketplace
The markets are thronged with people eager to buy gifts, decorations and other festive items. There are special bazaars held at various places where people also sell home-made food and decoration items. Shops and streets are decorated with traditional colored decorations giving a perfect look for a colorful Christmas. On Infantry Road, Safina Plaza is especially famous for its decorative items and unique Christmas gifts.In the recent times, Bangalore has been aspiring for an eco-friendly Christmas. Thus, most items including the Christmas tree have eco-friendly alternatives. Innovative home decor made of old fabric and recycled card boards are successfully replacing the older more expensive options. These products can be made at home and prove to be very cost effective and environment friendly. Thus, more and more environment conscious homes are considering these options.
Christmas in Churches
There are a number of churches especially in the central part of the town which caters to many denominations. Many of these churches were built by the Europeans and have marked influences of British and French architecture. Furthermore, each of these churches has their own unique customs and traditions for the celebration of the festival. Some engage heavily in philanthropic activities while others engage in elaborate Church services. Most of them are known for their grand decorations, especially the crib of Baby Jesus and the thematic displays.St Mary’s Basilica, Christ Church and St. Patrick’s Church are famous churches here which hold the midnight mass and other activities throughout the season.
Christmas and Philanthropy
It is very touching to see a number of people visiting old age homes, the underprivileged, orphanages, societies for cancer patients, etc during Christmas. People usually donate clothes, books and food and prefer to spend the day celebrating with the people from these homes. It is one of the most selfless activities to do during Christmas and has become increasingly popular among schools, colleges and is heavily encourage by churches.The More Commercial Christmas Celebration
There are a number of eateries which spread some delectable holiday cheer with some of the best festive dishes prepared specially for the occasion. There are extremely innovative Christmas menus to tantalize the taste buds in a perfect ambiance with a perfect company. These menus comprise of the European as well as the traditional classics like Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Sauce, Chicken Liver Pate, Honey Roast Ham with apple sauce, Peking Duck, Roasted Tomatoes and Baked Apples. The liquid buffet consists of Christmas Cocktails, beer and wine to match up with the succulent food. For a sweet salvation, Christmas desserts include Plum pudding with brandy sauce, cookies and cakes and mince pie. Most famous places like Taj West End, The Oberoi and Hyatt Hotel.There are numerous parties happening all over the place. Pubs and Lounges have tickets for their special Christmas concerts and Christmas menus. Hard Rock Cafe, Zuri, Olive Beach and Shiro always have something extravagant for Christmas celebrations. The youth prefer going to these parties than celebrating Christmas at home. Though it has a very commercial feel to it, celebrating Christmas and New Year parties at pubs, restaurants and lounges is becoming increasingly popular as everything is readily available and nothing needs to be created for the occasion. The working population finds this option most enticing and convenient.
Both Christians and Non Christians celebrate the festival with equal gusto though the Christians try to retain the traditional charm of Christmas by attending church services, preparing Christmas dishes at home and having a family reunion to exchange gifts and celebrate relationships.