Despite having been plagued with wars and political crises for decades, The Democratic Republic of Congo still partakes in the magical spirit of Christmas.
While many see Christmas as a celebration that includes lavish gifts and grand feasts, the Congolese keep things a bit more modest.
Gifts are not a big part of Christmas festivities in The Democratic Republic of Congo. In fact, the celebration is more of a religious celebration versus one where people indulge in one another.
Churches throughout the DRC arrange celebrations that are heavily centered around music and plays.
These plays are highly symbolic and showcase Bible stories, including the creation of modern man.
While modest as compared to consumer nations, the celebration is quite grand, as the Congolese show great passion during their performances.
The birth of baby Jesus is revealed as midnight nears, as to fall exactly on the day of His birth.
That means that the play does not end until the early hours on Christmas day and in some cases, do not end until sunrise!
On the day of Christmas, church celebrations start up yet again, only hours after the previous night’s celebration has ended.
The musical displays and festivities continue and finally, everyone heads back to their homes to have a meal.
While many are unable to provide the grand feasts that other countries have come to know and love, the Congolese do try to make a better meal than they’re used to.
These meals include meat as a main dish, if it is within their means to do so.
Because the Christmas celebration in The Democratic Republic of Congo is practically a two-day event, the rest of Christmas day is very laid-back.
On the 26th, also known as Boxing Day, all of the festivities end and it’s back to life as usual.
In the Lingala language, which is spoken in the DRC and some other African countries, Happy/Merry Christmas is ‘Mbotama Malamu’.
It is interesting to know how people wish Happy or Merry Christmas in other languages.
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Main Points About Christmas in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
- For the people in DRC, Christmas is a religious celebration rather than a commercial one. The exchange of gifts is very rare.
- On Christmas eve, the are many church services with carols, performances and nativity plays.
- On Christmas day, families prepare a different meal from their everyday meal. After the Christmas meal, many people spend the rest of the day sleeping, resting from the Christmas eve all-night church service.
- Palm trees and mango trees are sometimes decorated as traditional Christmas trees.
- Christmas meals are shared outdoors. Neighbors who cannot afford meals are given some. For many orphanages, meals are their Christmas gift.
Conclusion
Traditionally, everyone will get new clothes to wear to church this day, cooking starts in the early morning and you go to church service at 11.30.
Coming back from church, Christmas lunch is served and Christmas is more of a religious than a commercial time of the year.
Some families buy small chickens or goats well in advance to raise and then eat for Christmas. Nativity plays at church is also popular.
Word Cloud for Christmas in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
The following is a collection of the most used terms in this article on Christmas in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This should help in recalling related terms as used in this article at a later stage for you.
- https://africasoutheast.churchofjesuschrist.org/christmas-in-the-democratic-republic-of-the-congo
- https://mljadoptions.com/blog/christmas-in-congo-20121220
- https://www.officeholidays.com/holidays/dr-congo/christmas-day
Last Updated : 09 October, 2023
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It’s fascinating to learn about the unique Christmas traditions in The Democratic Republic of Congo. The emphasis on religious celebrations and modesty is truly enlightening.
I am amazed by their dedication to the nativity plays and how the celebration is centered around music and religious observances.
Absolutely! It’s refreshing to see a focus on the spiritual aspect of Christmas.
The DRC’s Christmas traditions are a beautiful embodiment of faith, tradition, and community, offering a unique perspective on the holiday’s true meaning.
Absolutely, the simplicity and warmth of their celebrations reflect the timeless spirit of Christmas.
This article offers an insightful look into the true meaning of Christmas in the DRC. It’s a reminder of the essence of the holiday beyond consumerism.
Agreed, the focus on church services and religious traditions is a wonderful aspect of Christmas in the DRC.
I appreciate the emphasis on sharing meals and uplifting neighbors during the Christmas celebrations.
This provides a refreshing perspective on Christmas, showcasing a beautiful blend of tradition, spirituality, and community.
Learning about their Christmas traditions is a delightful experience, shedding light on the cultural richness of the DRC.
It’s impressive how the people of the DRC truly embody the spirit of Christmas through their celebrations and acts of kindness.
The Christmas traditions in the DRC carry a profound sense of spirituality and communal sharing, portraying the essence of the holiday in its truest form.
It’s enlightening to see how the DRC celebrates Christmas with a strong focus on faith, compassion, and unity.
This article provides an eye-opening perspective on Christmas, highlighting the significance of community, faith, and generosity in the DRC’s celebrations.
Absolutely, the communal spirit and traditions of sharing reflect the true spirit of Christmas in the DRC.
The Christmas traditions in the DRC are a beautiful reflection of cultural heritage and religious observance. It’s truly remarkable.
There’s an inherent charm in the simplicity and sincerity of Christmas celebrations in the DRC. It’s a beautiful portrayal of faith and tradition.
Absolutely, it’s a wonderful departure from the commercialized nature of Christmas in many other parts of the world.
The Christmas customs in the DRC are a beautiful fusion of cultural heritage and religious devotion. It’s a captivating portrayal of tradition.
The DRC’s approach to Christmas is a refreshing departure from the consumer-driven nature of the holiday.
Indeed, the emphasis on community, faith, and humility makes their celebrations truly remarkable.
The observance of Christmas in the DRC is a testament to the depth of their cultural and religious heritage. It’s both humbling and inspiring.
These traditions convey a profound message about the true essence of Christmas, transcending materialism and embracing compassion.
I agree, it’s heartwarming to witness the genuine spirit of Christmas and the emphasis on generosity within the community.