Christmas in Syria
Christmas is a significant holiday in Syria, celebrated by the Christian minority. The country has a rich and diverse culture, and the Christmas celebrations in Syria reflect this. People of all ages come together to enjoy the festivities, which include singing carols, decorating the Christmas tree, and feasting on traditional foods. One of the most important aspects of Christmas in Syria is the exchange of gifts.
The Tradition of Gift Giving
In Syria, the tradition of gift-giving is an integral part of the Christmas celebrations. The act of giving gifts to loved ones is seen as an expression of love, appreciation, and gratitude. The gifts are usually exchanged on Christmas Eve after attending the midnight mass. It is common for families to gather together in the living room, where they exchange gifts and share a meal.
The Role of Santa Claus
In Syria, Santa Claus is known as Baba Noel. Baba Noel is an essential part of the Christmas celebrations, and children are excited to see him. In many homes, it is Baba Noel who brings the gifts for the children. Children leave their shoes outside their bedroom doors, hoping that Baba Noel will leave them a gift. Baba Noel is also a common sight in shopping malls and other public places during the holiday season.
When Are Gifts Given?
Gifts in Syria are usually given on Christmas Eve, which is known as "Laylat al-Bara’at." The act of gift-giving is seen as a way of celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and expressing love and affection towards family members and friends. In some families, gifts are also exchanged during the twelve days of Christmas, which ends on January 6th, the day of Epiphany.
Popular Gifts for Children
Children in Syria are fascinated by toys, just like children all over the world. It is common to give children dolls, puzzles, board games, and stuffed animals. Syrian children also enjoy receiving clothes, books, and sweets.
Popular Gifts for Adults
Adults in Syria usually receive practical gifts, such as home appliances, clothing, and accessories. It is also common to give traditional gifts such as perfumes, oud, and jewellery. Syrian adults also appreciate receiving books, chocolates, and sweets.
Affordable Gift Ideas
For those on a budget, there are many affordable gift ideas. Homemade cookies, candles, and handmade ornaments are a great way to show your love and appreciation without breaking the bank. Small mementos such as keychains, fridge magnets, and bookmarks are also popular.
Expensive Gift Ideas
For those who can afford to splurge, there are plenty of high-end gift ideas. Expensive watches, jewellery, and designer bags are all popular choices. In Syria, it is customary to give gold jewellery as a gift, as it is considered a sign of good luck and prosperity.
Giving to Charity
Charity is an essential part of the Christmas spirit in Syria. Many people choose to donate to charitable organizations or volunteer their time to help those in need during the holiday season. Giving to charity is seen as a way of spreading love and compassion to those who are less fortunate.
Corporate Gift Giving
In Syria, corporate gift-giving is common during the holiday season. Companies often give gifts to their employees, clients, and partners. The gifts are usually practical items, such as calendars, diaries, and pens, or luxury items, such as chocolates, sweets, and gift baskets.
Conclusion: The Spirit of Giving
The act of giving gifts is an essential part of the Christmas celebrations in Syria. It is a time to express love, appreciation, and gratitude towards family, friends, and colleagues. The gifts may vary in price and size, but the intention remains the same: to spread joy and happiness.
Acknowledgements
This article was written with the help of several sources, including online research, interviews with Syrians, and personal experience. The author would like to thank all those who contributed to this article.
