A Nigerian Christmas
Nigerians love making Christmas a huge family event. Some families are separated by a lot of distance, as some live in large cities, while the majority of their families live out in villages.
So the city dwellers return home for Christmas, to see their grandparents and older relatives for the holiday season.
Santa Claus is also visited by Nigerian children and their families, and this is their opportunity for Nigerians to dress their children in nice new clothing to make their visit that much more special.
Generally, they will decorate their homes, especially with an artificial Christmas tree. The streets are also decorated for the holiday season.
When all of their family is around, Nigerians love to throw Christmas parties, that start the day before on Christmas eve, and last all night!
In the morning, when their party is over, they then go to church and worship God and give their thanks for the holiday season.
Christmas Day
On Christmas day, children love opening presents and playing with the firecrackers they had been gifted before.
There is also a lot of music–their local village church choir might go around and sing to each house individually.
Christmas cards are also exchanged between friends and family members, just like their Christmas gifts.
Nigerian Christmas Meal
Turkey has caught on as a special meal for Christmas day, but Nigerians also prepare their usual favorites–beef, chicken, ram, sheep, or goat.
These meats will also be accompanied by traditional sides–stew, fried rice, jollof rice, pounded yam, and vegetable salad.
Season’s Greetings From Nigeria
There are several different languages spoken in Nigeria, so Christmas greetings can be said in many different ways.
How to say “Merry Christmas”
- In Hausa– “barka da Kirsimati”
- In Yoruba– “E ku odun, e ku iye’dun”
- In Fulani– “Jabbama be salla Kirisimati”
- In Igbo (Ibo)– “E keresimesi Oma”
- In Ibibio– “Idara ukapade isua”
- In Edo– “Iselogbe”
It is interesting to know how people wish Happy or Merry Christmas in other languages.
Learn More With the Help of Video
Main Points About Christmas in Nigeria
- Christmas is a family affair in Nigeria. A lot of emphasis and attention are placed on children on this day.
- Although Nigerians decorate their homes, however, it is not as elaborate.
- Firecrackers are a big deal in Nigeria. Within every 3-minute walking distance, a firecracker vendor can be found during the festive season.
- Christmas preparation starts as early as the last week of November. Usually, the women of the house go shopping for the entire family and many Children get new sets of clothes for Christmas.
- Rice, chicken/turkey, coleslaw, soft drinks, and alcohol are the basic Christmas meal. Christmas parties, carols, and concerts are very popular during the season.
Conclusion
Christmas is a very big deal in Nigeria, and people start preparing already at the beginning of the year. It’s time to meet family, eat traditional food and exchange gifts.
Depending on the economy of the country that year, Christmas might look a little different commercially though.
Many families have a party all night on Christmas Eve and then go to church in the morning on Christmas Day to give thanks to God.
Word Cloud for Christmas in Nigeria
The following is a collection of the most used terms in this article on Christmas in Nigeria. This should help in recalling related terms as used in this article at a later stage for you.
- https://www.demandafrica.com/travel/how-is-christmas-celebrated-in-nigeria/
- https://inallthings.org/christmas-in-nigeria/
- https://www.momoafrica.com/why-you-should-spend-christmas-in-nigeria/
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While the article offers an insightful depiction of Christmas in Nigeria, I find it curious that the economic perspective and commercial elements were not explored in detail. It would have provided a more holistic understanding of the celebration.
I concur, Dhughes. An exploration of the economic and commercial aspects would have added depth to the article. Nonetheless, the cultural insights are enriching and enlightening.
I agree with Dhughes. While the cultural facets are indeed captivating, a more comprehensive portrayal, encompassing the economic dimensions, would have offered a deeper understanding of the festivities.
While the cultural aspects described are interesting, I find it surprising that the commercial aspect of Christmas wasn’t elaborated upon. It would have provided a more comprehensive understanding of the celebration in Nigeria.
I agree, Sward. It would have been beneficial to explore the economic and commercial dimensions of Christmas in Nigeria. Nonetheless, the cultural insights provided are fascinating.
Such a beautiful and insightful article about Christmas in Nigeria! I was not aware of the cultural differences in Christmas celebrations around the world. I’m grateful for the new knowledge this article has given me!
This is an illuminating article, Sonia! Thank you for sharing. It provides an in-depth understanding of the unique ways in which Christmas is celebrated in Nigeria.
Absolutely, Sonia! It’s truly fascinating to learn about the diverse traditions and customs associated with Christmas. A wonderful read.
It’s intriguing to learn about the rich cultural heritage of Christmas in Nigeria. The emphasis on family, traditions, and festive celebrations is truly captivating!
Indeed, Fsaunders! The article beautifully captures the essence of Christmas in Nigeria, shedding light on the cherished customs and traditions celebrated during this festive season.
Absolutely, Fsaunders. I couldn’t agree more! This article offers valuable insights into the vibrant and joyous Christmas festivities in Nigeria.
An illuminating and comprehensive portrayal of Christmas in Nigeria. The article effectively captures the vibrant traditions and celebratory customs that define the holiday season in Nigeria.
The vivid descriptions of Christmas celebrations in Nigeria are truly engaging. This article provides a wonderful insight into the diverse cultural practices that make the holiday season in Nigeria so vibrant.
Absolutely, Yclarke! The detailed descriptions of holiday traditions and celebrations in Nigeria are both captivating and enlightening. A fascinating read!
This article provides a delightful depiction of the traditional Christmas celebrations in Nigeria. The detailed descriptions of customs and festivities paint a vivid picture of the holiday season.
Absolutely, Brown Sienna! The vivid imagery of Christmas in Nigeria is truly captivating. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the rich cultural traditions and joyful celebrations.
Agreed, Brown Sienna! The article beautifully portrays the essence of Christmas in Nigeria, offering a profound understanding of the vibrant cultural practices and festive spirit.
A captivating and insightful read on Christmas in Nigeria. The article succinctly captures the vibrant cultural traditions and festive customs, offering a profound understanding of the holiday season in Nigeria.
Absolutely, Mason Anthony! The article provides a thoroughly engaging portrayal of Christmas in Nigeria, shedding light on the rich cultural heritage and joyous celebrations.
The article provides a thorough and engaging overview of Christmas celebrations in Nigeria. The rich cultural traditions and festive customs described are truly captivating and provide valuable insights.
The descriptive narrative of Christmas in Nigeria is truly engaging and enlightening. This article presents a comprehensive overview of the cultural practices and festive customs associated with the holiday season.