Christmas Celebration in Nigeria - Popular Activities

It is that time of the season again. Christmas celebration is something you need to celebrate in Nigeria. That is, if you haven't. It doesn't really matter where in Nigeria you are celebrating yours. We all have that similar drive and excitement celebrating the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. Christmas is celebrated on the 25th of December all over the world, Nigeria inclusive. Lots of fun things happen during this period.

Trips during Christmas celebration in Nigeria

During the Christmas festive period, lots of people travel to their villages to visit their extended families. Travelling to the village is always fun as you get to meet people you have not seen for ages. You meet people from all walks of life come home to celebrate. However, people in the city are not left out of this celebration. Some families take their kids to see 'Father Christmas' also known as Santa Clause, some tourists visit some exciting places like 'Ikogosi Water Fall', Museum, Cinema, beaches etc.

Popular Christmas meals in Nigeria

Mutton (ram meat)

Ram meat, also known as mutton, holds a special place in the culinary traditions of Nigerian Christmas celebrations. Its preparation and consumption are deeply rooted in cultural practices, symbolizing generosity, festivity, and communal bonding. In Nigeria, ram meat is often associated with significant celebrations and religious festivals, including Christmas. The slaughtering of a ram is seen as a gesture of abundance and sharing, reflecting the spirit of the festive season. Families and friends come together to partake in the preparation and enjoyment of ram meat dishes, fostering a sense of unity and togetherness.

Rice 

Jollof Rice: No Nigerian celebration is complete without Jollof Rice. 

This iconic West African dish, made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices, is a staple at Christmas feasts. Its vibrant red color and savory flavor make it a favorite among all age groups. Often garnished with vegetables and served with fried plantains, chicken, or fish, Jollof Rice is a centerpiece at Christmas gatherings.

Fried Rice: Another popular dish, often served alongside Jollof Rice, is Fried Rice. 

Made with rice, mixed vegetables, liver or shrimp, and a blend of spices, it offers a colorful and tasty alternative. Its rich and varied ingredients make it a festive favorite, perfect for large family dinners.

Gifts

Some people plan their Christmas early enough while some later. Parents buy new clothes for their kids, couples gift one another, lovers get engagement surprises, bosses get Christmas hampers from employees, the motherless babies homes gets lots of visitations and gift items like clothes, food items the list goes on.

Social activities during the Christmas season 

Did I mention to you Christmas in Nigeria is always fun regardless? Just like magic you will be marveled at the rate people spend and throw parties. You begin to wonder. Are these not the same people that complained about being broke 2-3 months back. How come? The answer is very simple. Some people are of the notion Christmas season is the time to enjoy your January to December hard work. However, personally I disagree with this notion completely. Lots of weddings both traditional and church wedding take place during this time because the couple's want other family members both home and abroad to come share in their joy.

In all, if you haven't been to Nigeria, Christmas season is the best time to visit this great nation. There are lots of fun places to be visited and lots of cultures and traditions to be learned. Even though some churches don't celebrate Christmas in Nigeria, Christmas celebration is still something we all look forward to.

Hmmm! I almost forgot to add this. The mixed feelings that come with fireworks (aka bangers) even makes the celebration more exciting. Kids and youths especially find this fun while older folks find it annoying. But still, fireworks are not safe. The user(s) need to trade with caution. Some of the kids are ready to spend up their savings buying banger.