Christmas in Pakistan

The holiday season in Pakistan may not be the first thing that comes to mind for expats and digital nomads from traditionally Christmas-celebrating countries. However, for those spending their first Christmas and New Year's in Pakistan, the experience can be a delightful discovery of local customs, community events, and festive foods.

Christmas and New Year's Celebrations in Pakistan

In Pakistan, a predominantly Muslim country, Christmas is known as "Bara Din" (Big Day) among the Christian community, which makes up a small percentage of the population. The festivities are heartfelt and joyous, with a focus on family, friends, and religious services. While the celebrations may be more subdued compared to Western countries, the spirit of the holiday is very much alive in Christian neighborhoods and among those who choose to partake in the festivities.

Local Traditions and Celebrations

Leading up to the holidays, Christian families decorate their homes with star-shaped lanterns, Christmas trees, and nativity scenes. Churches are adorned with lights and hold special services. In cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad, hotels and some shopping malls also put up decorations and offer holiday-themed events to cater to the expat and local Christian communities.

While there isn't a widespread belief in Santa Claus or Father Christmas, children in Christian families do receive gifts from their parents. These gifts are often practical items like clothes or toys. In the spirit of giving, many also choose to donate to charity or volunteer their time to help those less fortunate during the holiday season.

Festive Foods and Desserts

Food is an integral part of any Pakistani celebration, and Christmas is no exception. Traditional dishes such as roast chicken, biryani, and various curries are enjoyed during festive gatherings. Desserts like plum cake, a variety of sweets, and homemade cookies are also popular. For New Year's, families and friends often get together for a feast to ring in the new year with joy and hope.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

On Christmas Eve, many Christian families attend midnight mass. This is a time for reflection, hymns, and community. Christmas Day is typically spent at home with family, enjoying a special meal and the company of loved ones. In some areas, carolers may go from house to house, singing and spreading holiday cheer.

Church attendance is an important aspect of the holiday for the Christian community, with services being held on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. These services are well-attended, and it's a time for prayer and togetherness.

Decorations, Markets, and Festivities

There are specific towns and neighborhoods in Pakistan known for their Christmas decorations and festivities. In Karachi, the Saddar area is famous for its Christmas bazaars and lights. Lahore's Mall Road and the area around St. Anthony's Church are also known for their festive atmosphere. Islamabad's F-7 sector, where many embassies are located, sees a number of private and public celebrations.

Christmas markets, while not as common as in Western countries, do pop up, offering everything from decorations to holiday treats. These markets are a great place for expats and digital nomads to experience local Christmas customs and shop for unique gifts.

In conclusion, while Christmas and New Year's in Pakistan may differ from what expats and digital nomads are accustomed to, the holidays offer a chance to witness the country's cultural diversity and warmth. From the intimate family gatherings to the communal church services and the festive foods, there's a sense of community and joy that resonates with the universal spirit of the season. As the year comes to a close, the blend of local traditions and familiar festivities makes for a memorable holiday experience in Pakistan.