Amidst all the signs that emphasize we are moving away from traditions in our quest to becoming modern, the youth of Delhi brings Christmas festivities back to the forefront by returning to age-old conventions. Even executives working at top-notch corporate offices stay up at night to prepare Christmas goodies for their loved ones and most prefer to spend time with their family rather than going out to party. The Christmas festivities cut across all faiths and age groups, with most people enthusiastic about making cakes and wrapping gifts as part of the celebrations.

Churches in the national capital are decorated with coloured lights and shining stars for a week prior to Christmas. On Christmas Eve, churches begin their ceremonial services an hour before midnight. Churchgoers dress up in their Sunday best on Christmas day to attend the traditional morning mass.

While people of other faiths may not attend mass, they are easily caught up in the Christmas fervor, with almost all shops, restaurants and hotels trying to outdo the other with their Christmas decorations and offers. It’s a common site to see Santa visiting and distributing sweets to children (without really asking whether they were naughty or nice this year!!). Carols can be heard, with great enthusiasm among the singers. Varied events take place simultaneously, giving people umpteen options to celebrate the festival.

Although it’s never a “white'” Christmas in Delhi, the fog situation is something to contend with. So, if you are going out this Christmas Eve, make sure you have taken the poor visibility factor into consideration.