Christmas Day in Papua New Guinea is a holiday celebrated with enthusiasm and joy. Similar to other countries around the world, it occurs on December 25, marking the birth of Jesus Christ. The country may be known for its vast cultural diversity, with over 800 languages spoken, and being predominantly Christian, all unite to partake in the Christmas festivities.
The locals in Papua New Guinea commemorate Christmas with a unique blend of traditional and western practices. The Christmas season is marked by colorful decorations, festive songs, dances, local food, and gift-giving. Many families attend church services and mass on Christmas eve, with some churches performing reenactments of the nativity scene. Carols are sung in both the native languages and English, adding a touch of cultural diversity to the celebrations.
Besides the widespread celebration in the urban areas, Christmas is also heartily observed in the rural and coastal areas of Papua New Guinea. The local villagers incorporate their traditional customs into the festivities. For instance, some coastal communities organize canoe races. Another popular tradition is 'Mumu', a feast prepared in an earth oven, which includes pork, vegetables, and local fruits. Regardless of the location, Christmas Day is a time for unity, peace, and reflection on the spiritual significance of the day.