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viking.com | 35 C H R I S T M A S I S S U E 2 4 CROATIA In Croatia, Christmas is a time for family, faith, and tradition. Celebrations start with Advent, when homes are decorated with wreaths and candles. On Christmas Eve, families attend midnight Mass, and a fasting meal is shared. Christmas Day brings a lavish feast, often including roasted meat and traditional sweets like paprenjaci (spiced biscuits). Wheat, symbolising prosperity, is sown weeks before and decorates homes. Croatia's cities sparkle with lights and Christmas markets. FRANCE French Christmas, or Noël, is rich with regional customs. In Provence, Les Treize Desserts (Thirteen Desserts) are served, symbolizing Jesus and his apostles. Midnight Mass is a central tradition, followed by a festive meal called Le Réveillon with oysters, foie gras, and Bûche de Noël (Yule log cake). Children place shoes by the fireplace for gifts from "Père Noël." Christmas markets, especially in Alsace, and elaborate decorations create a magical holiday atmosphere across France. SPAIN Christmas in Spain includes unique traditions such as La Misa del Gallo (Rooster's Mass) at midnight on Christmas Eve. Celebrations extend to 6 January with the Three Kings' Day (Epiphany), when children receive gifts. Families gather for festive meals, including seafood and lamb, and sweets like turrón. In Catalonia, El Caga Tió, a decorated log that defecates presents, is a quirky custom. Nativity scenes, lights, and parades add to the festive spirit throughout Spain. MONTENEGRO In Montenegro, Christmas traditions are closely tied to Orthodox Christianity, with celebrations typically held on 7 January due to the Julian calendar. The season begins with Badnji dan (Christmas Eve), where families burn a Yule log, or badnjak, symbolising warmth and prosperity. Midnight Mass is followed by a festive meal with pork, bread, and sweets like priganice (fritters). Family, community, and church gatherings play a central role, creating a warm, close-knit celebratory atmosphere. GREECE Greece celebrates Christmas with vibrant customs rooted in Orthodox Christianity. Carol singing, or kalanda, by children is a cherished tradition. On Christmas Eve, people attend Mass and enjoy a meal featuring pork, stuffed cabbage leaves, and sweet treats like melomakarona and kourabiedes. Boats are decorated in seaside towns, a unique tradition symbolising Greece's maritime heritage. The holiday season extends to Epiphany on January 6, celebrating the baptism of Christ with blessings of the waters. ITALY Christmas in Italy is marked by a deep- rooted blend of Catholic traditions. Families attend La Vigilia (midnight Mass) on Christmas Eve, and enjoy a grand seafood feast. Nativity scenes, or presepi, are crafted and displayed, and La Befana, a kind, broomstick-riding witch, delivers gifts to children on 6 January for Epiphany, symbolising the end of the season. Cities are beautifully decorated, and each region has unique Christmas dishes.