How do others celebrate Xmas around the world?Nicaragua retains many of the customs of old Spain. In the weeks leading up to Christmas people stroll the streets where there are many things to buy: candles, Nativity pictures, toys and foods. Children carry fragrant bouquets to the alter of the Virgin and sing carols. In Sweden, on the day of the feast, the eldest daughter in each family dresses in a white dress with a red sash, and wears an evergreen wreath with seven lighted candles on her head.
In almost every home in Greece, the main symbol of the season is a shallow wooden bowl with a piece of wire is suspended across the rim. From that hangs a sprig of basil wrapped around a wooden cross. A small amount of water is kept in the bowl to keep the basil alive and fresh. Once a day, a family member, usually the mother, dips the cross and basil into some holy water and uses it to sprinkle water in each room of the house. The people of Northern Brazil enjoy a version of the folk play Los Pastores or "The Shepherds." In their version, there are shepherdesses rather than shepherds and a gypsy who attempts to kidnap the Christ Child.
And there's plenty more...
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