Unlike the commercial Christmas which we have come to know in many parts of the US, the festival is celebrated in very deep religious sense, focusing primarily on the birth and life of Jesus Christ. Around Christmas, churches and parks across Paraguayan towns and cities light up in in an explosion of color. Decorations hang everywhere, with giant paper stars and Santa Claus adorning almost any possible platform. As Christmas comes in the Paraguayan summer, flowers are displayed everywhere creating mosaic of color across the country for the duration of the period.

Due to the Catholic nature of Paraguayan Christianity, the nativity scene or Presebre is an extremely important icon of Christmas. No matter where you go in Paraguay during this time, from churches to shops, to peoples own houses, the Presebre is an every present reminder of how religious this country is.

As the moment approaches on Christmas eve, the bells sing in the air calling the people to attend the midnight service, or as it is known locally as La Misa Del Gallo or the Mass of the Rooster. The mass itself is a celebration of life and the birth of Jesus, and is followed by enjoying good food and drink with family and friends.  The celebration however does not end there. On January 6th the epiphany is celebrated with children leaving out their shoes with notes for the three kings, who deliver gifts to the children of Paraguay.

Christmas in Paraguay is a unique and beautiful festival, which is deeply spiritual but at the same time is a celebration of the wonders of life. So if you’re at a loss for what to do this Christmas maybe a short trip to Asuncion may wash out those winter blues with a wave of color and celebration.

More Articles :

• Culture Of Paraguay
• Famous People From Paraguay
• How Do People In Paraguay Celebrate Christmas ?
• Interesting Facts About Paraguay
• Languages Spoken In Paraguay
• Paraguay Food
• Places To Visit In Paraguay
• Popular Foods In Paraguay