5 Local Experiences You Can Have in Goa this Christmas
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and there could be no better place to celebrate it than in Goa! Christmas in Goa falls in the coldest month of the year which makes this whole season of joy and merriment the loveliest of them all. Although the coolest month it also happens to be that season where everyone feels warm and giving. People thinking about the perfect gifts, Carol singing from door to door in Goa, families sitting together to prepare sweets, and kids planning what they want to wear are at their most playful characters and when their cheer-y hearts are closer than ever.
Christmas celebration in this former colony of the Portuguese – Goa, is one of a kind celebration and should definitely be looked forward to. While the entire state is lit up with stars and lights, you should definitely look out at small nooks and corners as these are the places that nestle the most authentic traditions, some of which we are going to mention to you as you continue reading about how to celebrate Christmas like a Goan.
Christmas in Goa is not about the high-end parties in clubs. The smell of rum cakes and coffee, the soothing music of Christmas carols, the bells ringing in churches, and the exchange of gifts are what bring about the true essence of Christmas in Goa.
Every year, Goa basks in the festivities of Christmas and is dressed like a bride for the occasion. Old Goa is dotted with ancient architecture mostly dating back to medieval times, which makes it a great place for a Christmas celebration. Hit the Goan streets as the festivities are all over the place, following are a few among the list you should definitely watch out for and partake in for a real feel of Goa!
Midnight Mass
Christmas traditions in Goa include attending midnight mass on New Year’s Eve, which brings in the festivities with a solemn celebration. There are over 400 churches in Goa, so people can attend a Midnight Mass at any of them on Christmas Eve. The oldest church in India, Basilica of Bom Jesus, gives a satisfying feeling when prayed for.
A Midnight Mass is usually offered by 10 – 11 pm, so grabbing a seat at the church in advance is advisable to enjoy the festivities. With hymns and carols all around, this is the perfect place to celebrate Christmas in Goa.
Firework Show
There is a whole lot of festivity and lights in Goa during Christmas. Don’t forget to watch the firecracker show all around the state, especially by the beachside. It transforms the entire place into a dreamy show and is definitely a delight to the eyes during Christmas.
During Christmas celebrations in Goa, Anjuna Beach offers myriads of colors and light as the entire beach area goes partying until dawn alongside the crazy crowd and colorful cracker show.
Relish in Goan Christmas Delicacies
Rum cakes are so popular in Goa and one of the Christmas specialties! And when you discuss the Christmas celebration with Christmas sweets in Goa, a rum cake bursting with dry fruit becomes even more delicious. There are other mouthwatering Goan dishes that every food lover should try, such as colored Marzipan for Christmas. Bebinca, Neureos, Dodol, and Bath are some of the other dishes that are popular in Goa during Christmas. These dishes can be found at the bakeries during the holiday season.
Attend the traditional Christmas Balls
Goa has a nightlife that fewer places will even dream of! On its regular days, especially in December, the dance floors are filled with partygoers. The festive atmosphere in Goa on Christmas Eve is especially cheerful and festive, with fun parties. Jive, waltz, or fox-trot to the local bands would compel you to move to their tunes. That retro number or the Konkani number would certainly impress the guests.
Crib Visiting
As part of the Goa Christmas celebrations, people construct cribs for the holidays and participate in various competitions aimed at designing both interiors and furniture. In addition, the most prominent one is the village of Jesus. Locals also compete with one another to make stars on a larger scale, which is marked by high spirits.
How many of these are you going to visit? Let us know which tradition are you most excited about. You may also like to read our blog post on why to visit Goa during the festive season.
