Christmas preparations in full swing

Several business owners hope to make profit selling gifts, decorations, edible items

ISLAMABAD:

In the days leading up to the grand festival of Christmas on December 25, the Christian community in the federal capital is nearing the end of its holiday preparations.

Citizens have bought essential items like dresses, shoes and other accessories. They have also decorated Christmas trees, and bought gifts and cakes for their loved ones. The main markets and shops of the capital have their stock of Christmas-related accessories on display. Meanwhile, sweet shops are also gearing up to attract large business through the sale of cakes and sweets on the occasion.

“Christmas is the main festival during this winter season, through which we can earn good profits by selling Christmas tree embellishments, chocolates, flowers and gift items in bulk", Murad Ali, a shop owner at F-10 Markaz said. He added, "Although we are expecting lots of sales this Christmas, the threat of new variant of COVID-19 is looming on our heads. We can only earn good profits if the situation remains normal.”

The festival will be markedwith different activities, ranging from community gatherings to cake cutting ceremonies in small communities. However, the main attractions of the celebrations are the decorated Christmas trees to welcome the arrival of Santa Claus, also known as Father Christmas.

Youngsters decorate the tree with different ornaments, including baubles, small bells, painted gold or silver, stars of different shapes and sizes, pine cones, apples, candies, tinsel and balloons made from glass, metal, wood and ceramic. An angel and star is often placed at the top of the tree, representing the host of angels.

A number of stalls have been set up outside the ‘Katchi Abadis’, where the majority of Christian community resides.

The stall owners have displayed variety of decorative ornaments, as well as the dresses of Santa Claus - an attractive aspect for youngsters and children.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 19^th, 2021.