PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
The Christmas spirit has gripped Dehradun with churches, markets, malls and public spaces across the city decked in festive colours ahead of the celebrations. From special prayer services and processions to fairs, food stalls and cultural performances, the city is experiencing a surge of excitement among its residents.
Churches across Dehradun have lined up special programmes for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Christmas Eve prayers will begin and continue until midnight, followed by fellowship activities, including a bonfire, tea and coffee. Special prayer services, Christmas carols and Bible-based performances have been organised throughout the week.
Churches hosted dedicated services for children, youth and women. Programmes included Christmas plays, musical performances and special acts such as a presentation on the biblical story of the Ten Virgins. Churches will organise annual fetes featuring games, sports activities for children, food stalls and live band performances, making the celebrations more colourful than previous years.
This year, the organisers have added new attractions, including open-air live band performances and expanded stalls offering festive food and games. Carol singing, which traditionally took place inside church premises, has also been extended to outdoor spaces, drawing large crowds and adding to the festive atmosphere on the city roads.
The president of an organisation of the Christian youth, Dipsan James said that Christmas is being celebrated with the same traditional spirit albeit with several new arrangements.
The Christmas buzz is also clearly visible in Dehradun’s commercial hubs. Shopping areas and malls, including Centrio Mall, have been decorated with lights, Christmas trees and festive installations. Stores are offering special Christmas collections, including red dresses, winter wear and gift items while food courts feature a variety of Christmas-themed delicacies. The markets are witnessing increased footfall as people shop for cakes, decorations and gifts.
The residents, especially children and youth, are enthusiastically participating in celebrations with many describing Christmas as one of the most joyful times of the year in the city. The festive mood, combined with music, decorations and community gatherings, has turned Dehradun into a hub of Christmas cheer.
With multiple events planned over the coming days, Dehradun is set to celebrate Christmas with enthusiasm, unity and a strong sense of community spirit.
