Preparations: Christmas shopping stepped up

LAHORE:

Christmas shopping is increasing at the city’s markets. Christian families can be seen at shopping centres in Anarkali, Ichra, Rang Mehal, on The Mall, Gulberg, Defence, Model Town and Saddar Bazaar buying clothes and shoes.

“Each year we plan to complete shopping several days before Christmas rather than trying to find something the day before,” said Jennifer Phino, a banker. “Women are the best bargainers…they prefer the cheapest price,” said Issa, a shop owner.  Christmas preparations will reach their climax when the bells are rung and hymns sung at churches at midnight mass on December 24. Churches are being decorated with arches, buntings and bells. Christmas trees are being placed in churches and hotels. Church administrations are planning to set up special fairs outside churches.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 17^th, 2012.