A HOLIDAY TO REMEMBER

Holidays are a set of beliefs, customs, and forms of artistic expression characteristic of a
community. That’s why there are special dates where people can express their beliefs;
whether of religious, national or cultural significance, in which these are usually
accompanied by celebrations or festivities.

Although around the world There are different kinds of religions, each one with unique
through and doctrine. However, there is at least one that is very and widely celebrated.
Therefore each country has its own special way of celebrating it. So let’s take a close look
at one of the most celebrated annual holidays over the world.

Christmas
This is the largest and most recognized annual festival, celebrated generally on December
25th by millions of people around the world. This is the day when Jesus was born and he
is considered to be a present from god for the well-being of mankind. Because of that, it is
taken as a very happy holiday. People celebrate giving gifts and getting together in family.
In addition, decorated Christmas trees and human Santa’s are observed on the streets and
shopping malls.

Colombian Christmas Traditions is an entirely different experience to what we know in

Europe or United States, as soon as they possibly can, Colombians start to decorate their
houses, they celebrate the festive season with their close relatives and as well as
Christmas elsewhere, there are typical and proper meals. Secondly, Colombia has certain
specific celebrations, and one of them is called “La Noche de Las Velitas” is celebrated all
over Colombia on December 7th, in honor to the Virgin Mary, people go out into the
streets and you can find a large number of candles everywhere, it’s a great night and
something which everyone gets involved in. There is also another celebration called
“Novena”, it’s a tradition that started in the eighteenth century in honor of Jesus. It begins
nine days before Christmas and everyday people gather in homes, offices and parks to get
involved in some singing or praying. In these events people usually sing carols with some
instruments like rattles or drums.

Speaking of food, the traditional dishes play an important role in the celebrations. In
Colombia, it will be difficult to avoid “buñuelos” or “natillas” and some other delights.
Also, don’t be surprised to find an “ajiaco” on your Christmas table. And finally, we can
find a great and amazing amount of lights, maybe there are some figures that have
nothing to do with Christmas, but in fact it is an unforgettable experience.