It’s carols, carnivals and cookie exchange time this Christmas

Christmas is just a few days away and celebrations have already begun with a bang in the city.
Youngsters have begun feeling all Christmassy as they gear up for a fun weekend full of events. Streets have begun to wear a holiday mood and are being adorned with posters, banners and messages via social media are being shared to inform every one about the celebrations that are to soon begin.And as the city gears to herald the birth of Jesus Christ, we bring you all the Christmas events you could take part in during the season of love, peace and giving.
Bringing out the Cookie Monster in everyone
Who doesn’t love the idea of crumbly cookies dunked in hot milk? Sohum Shinde, a baker, has planned to spread some special Christmas cheer with his innovative cakes and festive baked goodies. “This year, I’m organising a cookie and cake exchange event where friends can come and enjoy tucking into these festive goodies while they exchange them,” said Sohum. Excited about this new way of soaking in the festivities, Kavita Kuwar said, “An exchange event is something that people of all age groups can be part of. After all, sharing and being one is the core essence of Christmas.”
Reliving the Christmas story
While the festivities go on, many aren’t aware of the story that’s the reason for the season. With this in mind, Deepika Maarda, a storyteller, has planned to bring alive the story of Christ’s birth for children and keen listeners. “Christmas is never complete without knowing about Jesus’ birth and other festive symbols like Santa Claus. Children are curious about festivities and cultural celebrations and that’s the reason why so many love to hear these stories year after year. These tales will not only enlighten everyone but also add special meaning to the season,” said Deepika. She has also planned to make the experience interactive with activity sheets for the little ones. The session will see stories like The Empty Stocking by Richard Curtis and When Santa Went Missing being narrated. “My brother and I are looking forward to the storytelling. There are always new ones to listen to,” said Anouska Sahani.
Winter movie magic
While Christmas is all about the goodies, decoration and carols, there are a number of films based on the season. And there’s no better time to catch up on them than Christmas. Movie buffs can look forward to a marathon of Christmas films where they can soak in the yuletide spirit by catching up on festive films under the stars. Varsha Bachani, one of the organisers of the screenings, said, “ While the idea is to make the story of Christmas and its traditions known to localites, we have planned to screen a documentary on Christ’s birth and Elf. Besides being an informative experience, we’re sure it will be fun.”
Yuletide carols
A key trait of the season includes carols, both traditional and contemporary, joyous melodies that remind all of love, peace and celebration. For Divya Menon who recently moved from the US, this Christmas will see her reliving the nostalgia of singing these yuletide tunes while she stayed abroad. “I would have missed the feeling of celebrating Christmas if it wasn’t for all the carol singing events in the city. I got myself enrolled in one of the city choirs. It has been fun practicing and sharing my experiences with the local participants.”
Christmas carnivals and more
A number of ladies get together to organise a Christmas carnival ahead of Christmas. People participate and revel in the celebrations with decoration, accessories, books, Christmas photo booths and dancing. Siya Jagwani, says, “We’ve planned a host of activities for people of all age groups. From Secret Santa, where people get to give and receive gifts anonymously, to Christmas card making competitions, there’s much to look forward to this season. We’re expecting over 200 localites to turn up.”
By Rashi Oberoi