In Mauritius, Christmas is a public holiday that marks the birth of Jesus Christ and is celebrated on December 25th every year. The festivities are embraced by all communities, regardless of their religious affiliations, making the island nation united in its observance of this remarkable day. As this holiday falls during the Mauritian summer, locals often enjoy the holiday at the beach, bringing a unique perspective to this festive season.
The preparations for Christmas in Mauritius start early with communities coming together to partake in communal activities that range from decoration of the neighborhood to cooking delicious meals. Homes, streets, and shops are adorned with beautiful lights, Christmas trees, and nativity scenes. The air is filled with the smell of traditional Christmas dishes like roast chicken, seasonal fruits, and the famous Christmas cake, which is actually a rich fruitcake often soaked in rum or wine.
A significant aspect of Christmas in Mauritius is the midnight mass, where worshippers congregate, and choirs sing carols in various languages including English, French, and Creole. Gift giving is another vital tradition, with Santa Claus delivering presents to children in the night. After the midnight mass, families get together to feast on the traditional Christmas dinner. The day ends with an exhilarating display of fireworks that light up the Mauritian sky, culminating the Christmas Day celebrations with delightful cheer.