Sri Lanka Christmas 2019 Holidays And Celebrations Guide

Sri Lanka, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is a country with a rich cultural heritage and a strong tradition of celebrating festivals and holidays. Christmas, being a significant festival for the Christian community, is also celebrated with great fervor in Sri Lanka. In this article, we will delve into the Christmas celebrations in Sri Lanka, highlighting the unique traditions, customs, and experiences that make Christmas in Sri Lanka a special and memorable occasion.

Christmas in Sri Lanka: A Unique Blend of Traditions

Christmas in Sri Lanka is a unique blend of Western and Eastern traditions. The country's Christian community, which makes up around 7% of the population, celebrates Christmas with Midnight Mass, carol singing, and exchanging gifts. However, the celebrations also incorporate many local customs and traditions, making Christmas in Sri Lanka a distinct and fascinating experience.

Preparations and Traditions

In the lead-up to Christmas, Sri Lankans begin preparing for the festivities by decorating their homes, churches, and public spaces with stars, angels, and Christmas trees. The streets are filled with the sweet scent of festive treats, such as Christmas cake and breudher, a traditional Dutch-influenced cookie.

On Christmas Eve, families gather together for a special dinner, often featuring traditional dishes such as turkey, ham, and roast chicken. The meal is usually accompanied by a variety of side dishes, including rice, vegetables, and papadum.

After dinner, many Sri Lankans attend Midnight Mass, which is a solemn and beautiful ceremony that marks the beginning of Christmas Day. The mass is often accompanied by traditional Christmas carols, sung in both Sinhala and Tamil, the country's two main languages.

Christmas Day Celebrations

On Christmas Day, families gather together to exchange gifts and enjoy a festive meal. The day is often spent visiting relatives, friends, and neighbors, and engaging in traditional games and activities, such as playing cricket or carrom.

In the evening, many Sri Lankans attend church services, which are often followed by festive processions and performances. The streets are filled with music, dance, and laughter, as people come together to celebrate the joy and spirit of Christmas.

Christmas in Sri Lanka: A Tourist's Perspective

For tourists, Christmas in Sri Lanka is a unique and unforgettable experience. The country's warm and welcoming people, combined with its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, make it an ideal destination for a festive holiday.

Tourists can experience the magic of Christmas in Sri Lanka by attending Midnight Mass, participating in traditional celebrations, and indulging in local festive cuisine. They can also explore the country's many historic sites, including ancient temples, colonial-era buildings, and scenic national parks.

Christmas Shopping in Sri Lanka

For those looking to do some Christmas shopping, Sri Lanka offers a wide range of unique and exciting options. From traditional handicrafts to modern boutiques, the country has something to offer for every taste and budget.

Tourists can explore the many markets and shopping centers in Colombo, Kandy, and other major cities, where they can find a variety of festive goods, including decorations, gifts, and clothing.

Christmas Events and Activities in Sri Lanka

Throughout the Christmas season, Sri Lanka hosts a range of events and activities, including concerts, performances, and festivals. These events offer a unique opportunity for tourists to experience the country's rich cultural heritage and festive spirit.

Some of the most popular Christmas events in Sri Lanka include the Colombo Christmas Festival, the Kandy Christmas Pageant, and the Galle Christmas Market. These events feature a range of activities, including music, dance, food, and crafts, and offer a fun and festive atmosphere for all to enjoy.

Christmas Accommodation in Sri Lanka

For those looking to spend Christmas in Sri Lanka, there are many accommodation options available, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses.

Tourists can choose from a range of festive packages and promotions, which often include special Christmas meals, decorations, and activities. Many hotels and resorts also offer special Christmas events and activities, such as carol singing, Santa Claus visits, and festive parties.

Conclusion

Christmas in Sri Lanka is a unique and unforgettable experience, offering a blend of traditional and modern celebrations, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Sri Lanka is an ideal destination for a festive holiday, with its warm and welcoming people, delicious food, and exciting events and activities.

So why not consider spending Christmas in Sri Lanka this year? With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and festive atmosphere, it's an experience you'll never forget.