Image by tommy.chang via Flickr
Christmas begins officially on December 6th in Nicaragua, but actual activities begin on December 16 with the performance of the lodging difficulties of Mary and Joseph. The home where lodging is found supplies wine and food. Every home contains a manger scene. From December 16 until Christmas Eve Mass, prayer is held each evening in the home, followed by refreshments and the singing of carols. After Christmas Eve Mass, the Christmas dinner is consumed (only adults attend this dinner). Christmas cards are exchanged in Nicaragua, but they are white and plain and contain only the inscription:
Felices Pascuas Yprospero Ano Nuevo.
Christmas Day is celebrated with much fun and eating, fireworks and dancing. The main streets of the towns and cities are decorated and have loud-speakers broadcasting Christmas carols.
