Paraguay Christmas Traditions

Christmas is a festival celebrated all over the world. Be it in America, Asia or Europe, every country celebrates this amazing festival with enthusiasm and happiness. The traditions in different countries are different. Some countries celebrate Christmas in a Merry way while some in religious manner. One such country that celebrates Christmas in its real meaning and the way it should be is Paraguay. Paraguay Christmas traditions are deeply religious.

Paraguay is a small country area wise and is situated in South America. It is located almost in the central part of the continent. Its geographical neighbors are Argentina, Brazil and Bolivia. Most of the population in the country is Christian and so Christmas has great importance in Paraguay. It is not just famous for its soccer squad but also for Paraguay Christmas traditions. Christmas traditions in this country are genuinely spiritual. They show the passion Paraguayans have to celebrate Christmas.

Unlike most of the American countries, Christmas in Paraguay is not merely party time but it is a family get-together. The traditions are native to the country and so are only found here. They concentrate more on the birth of Christ and his teachings. Churches are decorated with multicolored lights and large Christmas ornaments. Public places and town squares are also adorned with outdoor Christmas ornaments. The shining country of Paraguay itself resembles the joy and happiness of Paraguayans in celebrating Christmas.

Nativity scenes or 'Presebre' as they call it holds great importance in Paraguay Christmas traditions. The preparations for the nativity scene begin well in advance and the whole family is involved in it. In every Paraguayan house, you will surely find a nativity scene, be it small or big. They are the prime things for Christmas in the country. You will find large and small nativity sets all over the country during Christmas. They are setup in churches and houses.

Paraguayans celebrate a hot Christmas, as it is summer in December in Paraguay. Flowers bloom all over the country during summers in Paraguay. These flowers are used widely for decoration in churches as well houses on Christmas. You will find colorful and aromatic flowers all over the country.

On the mid night, when the clock strikes twelve in Paraguay you will hear the church bell ring. Listening to this sound, people gather to attend the "La Misa Del Gallo" which means the Mass of the Rooster. After the mass, the real celebration of Christmas begins with friends and family.

New Year is also celebrated with the same passion and joy as Christmas is celebrated. This day is also a family get together day.

The Day of Epiphany is important in Paraguay. It is celebrated on sixth of January. The night before Epiphany, children in Paraguay set out with shoes and letters to the king. The next day the kings distribute gifts to the kids according to their desire. Unlike other countries where Santa is considered important here, the kids are more interested to celebrate the Feast of Epiphany.

Paraguay Christmas traditions are interesting to know about and at the same time inspiring. They tell us the real way of celebrating Christmas.