Shops brim with Christmas-themed accessories

Like elsewhere in the world, the Christian community in the federal capital has begun preparations for celebrating the festival of Christmas with great enthusiasm.

The grand festival of Christmas, celebrated with passion and joy across the city, promises to spread warmth and cheer in the chilly winter air.

The markets and shops across Islamabad are brimming with Christmas-themed accessories like Christmas trees, wreaths, garlands, ornaments, lights and stockings, and Christmas gifts, drawing crowds eager to make their celebrations special. The shopkeepers are anticipating a boost in sales as families, despite the rising cost of living, continue to prepare for the festival by buying dresses, shoes, and other accessories, especially for the children.

The sweet sellers and florists are also gearing up to capitalise on the occasion by offering festive treats and floral arrangements to add charm to the festival.

Julia, a mother of four, shared her challenges in preparing for Christmas amidst economic hardships. "My husband is a cab driver, and we're struggling to manage our children's education and household expenses," she said. "With prices so high, buying new clothes and shoes is impossible, so I've turned to the flea market for affordable options", she said.

Despite economic pressures, the Christmas spirit remains vibrant as the members of the Christian community of Islamabad are seen enthusiastically engaging in holiday traditions such as decorating homes with lights, setting up nativity scenes, and buying gifts for loved ones.

This festive season is a time of hope and renewal, where people come together to celebrate faith and family. For shopkeepers, Christmas presents a lucrative opportunity to earn profits by selling festival-related stuff.

Ameen Ali, a shop owner in F-7 Markaz, said, "This season, we expect good sales as people buy gifts, ornaments, chocolates, and flowers to celebrate the grand festival. Christmas always brings a surge in demand for decorative items and festive essentials."

The customers are particularly interested in unique ornaments for decorating Christmas trees and personalised gift items to make the celebrations more meaningful, he said.