Many countries in Africa have been influence by Western countries during colonization. Therefore, they have adopted bits and pieces about those cultures and mixed then with their own culture. Fox Rent A Car Christmas Around the World is now taking you to the Republic of Congo to discover how Christmas is celebrated there, introduces you to the Christmas traditions in Congo and how families spend the Holidays in this Central African country.
Christmas in Congo: Traditions
A play of the Native Scene takes place during the service of Christmas Eve. The most important tradition that depicts Christmas in Congo happens during the mass of Christmas day, in the morning: every person attending the Christmas service comes with a gift for Jesus, an offering, which is left for him by the altar.Another important tradition in Congo is that people always wear they most beautiful clothe for the service and the Christmas celebration.
Christmas in Congo: Decorations
Christmas decorations are put on mango tress and in the front of shops. Flowers are an essential part of the decorations.
Christmas in Congo: Food
Different than how a lot of other cultures celebrate Christmas, families in Congo celebrate Christmas not only with family members but with intimate friends as well. After the Christmas mass, a table is brought out in front of the house and families have dinner. The dinner consists of baked chicken or turkey, served with rice and a tomato sauce. Some vegetables sometime accompany the meat, such as cassava (similar to potatoes). Exotic fruits (papaya, mango) replace our sugary treats, as it is too warm to bake cookies and candies are pretty rare.
Christmas in Congo: Songs
A group of people is designated every year to organize the Christmas choir. They walk through the village in the morning of Christmas day and sing Christmas carols. Singing is also very important during the mass on Christmas Eve. Up to 6 choirs sing during this mass. After dinner singing and dancing is an important part of the celebration in the families as well.
Christmas in Congo: Presents
In Congo, presents are exchanged after the dinner on Christmas Eve. Congonlese families usually exchange clothes, small toys and food as gifts. A lot of families cannot afford presents, so the most important present is to be able to celebrate with families and friends and share food together.
Christmas in Congo is one of the most important celebrations, and is much more religious than commercial. Not every family can afford to have an exclusive dinner for Christmas but it is still for every one the most important celebration of the year.
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