Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve is the day before Christmas. Christmas Eve is observed either as a full or partial holiday in anticipation of Christmas. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are considered as one of the most culturally significant celebrations in the Christian communities and the Western world There are many varying cultural traditions associated with Christmas Eve. These include family gathering; gathering of friends; singing of Christmas carols; illumination of Christmas lights and trees; wrapping of gifts and general preparation for Christmas Day. In some countries such as Germany, Sweden and Portugal, people exchange their gifts on Christmas Eve. Roman Catholic and Anglican churches traditionally celebrate the Midnight Mass, which begins either at or just before midnight on Christmas Eve. This mass celebrates the birth of Christ, which is believed to have occurred at night. The Lutheran, Methodists and Protestants churches have the evening and midnight services on Christmas Eve.