5 minute read
Jar of Goan Christmas Memories!
It’s that time of the year where celebrations fill the air for the year that has been with plans and dreams made for the laziest time of the year.
What better way to ring in the New Year than India’s party capital, Goa! From the unusual seashore events to the romantic moonlit cruises, Goa has been recognised as India’s preferred vacation destination. While Goa is recognized to be brimming with cheer and enthusiasm during this time of the year, the two months of December and January attain the absolute zenith. The land has a prosperous Christian subculture with lovely church buildings teaming up with Catholic festivities. The Goan Christmas experience has begun. This pocket-sized paradise of India is changed into a dizzying kingdom of festive fervour, and it is difficult now not to be completely consumed with the aid of the celebrations. Here are some unique Goan Christmas experiences you must try when hitting Goa for Christmas.
Be a Part of Midnight Mass
The churches in Goa are architectural gemstones from a bygone colonial generation that are delivered to existence at Midnight mass.
It has more than four hundred churches, big and small, and there’s no better way to have a fun Christmas in Goa than by attending a night-time mass service.
Say a prayer, provide thanks for your benefits and be part of others in singing hymns and carols. You can go to the Basilica of Bom Jesus and the Immaculate Conception Church to be a part of a middle – night mass.
Enjoy Amazing Firework Shows
During Christmas in Goa, all the streets are lit up and marketplaces are embellished with tinsel and buntings. Enjoy the colourful firework exhibits all around. Some of the best locations to revel in the fireworks are Anjuna Beach, Arambol Beach, Calangute Beach, and Vagator Beach. The regions of Old Goa, dotted through numerous church buildings show superb fireworks and impart an irresistible enchantment to the festive fervor. The fireworks show that takes place on Christmas and New Year’s Eve is absolutely breath-taking which solely adds more splendour to this destination. It’s a glamorous sight everyone must witness once in a lifetime. A couple of seashores in the state have the most beautiful show of fireworks as well. If you’re the type of person that would adore such an act, head to the nearest seashore on Christmas eve, and while you relish your seafood revel in the stunningly colourful fireworks in the night sky.
Indulge in Christmas Eve Dance
Goa is famous for its seaside events and nightlife however at some stage in Christmas celebrations, the environment is different. One can experience lively vibes and admire glinting decorations around. The celebrations are taken to a new level with the Christmas Eve Dance. One can experience Christmas Eve dance events at locations like Vagator and Anjuna beaches.
Dancing and parties are an inevitable part of the Christmas celebrations in Goa. If you’re the kind of person that is fond of ballroom dancing then quite a few places in the state host formal dances. Some of the famous spots to be at are Emerald Lawns, Alva Mar, Silver Bells, Blueberry Hills, Woodbourne Hall and Quinta de Valadares among others. These parties usually take place either on the 24th or 25th evenings and go on until midnight. So, put on your dancing shoes along with your best attire and get ready to dance until dawn at these parties. Sinq, Cohiba, Showbar, Mambos, Marbella Beach Resort and Cavala are some of the places to go to if you’re looking to be blown away with Bollywood, Hip-Hop and EDM tunes.
Hit the Streets
Hit the Goan streets as the festivities are all over the place and also don’t miss out on the Christmas carnival in Goa. Christmas in Goa is one of the most important festivals celebrated and here are some of the best experiences you can indulge in for an amazing Christmas celebration. Christmas is the time when the entire state basks in festivities and is decked up like a bride. There are plenty of places for a Christmas celebration in Old Goa. The place is dotted with ancient architecture mostly belonging to medieval times.
Burn the Old Man
Not precisely a Christmas celebration, however, the subculture of burning the historical man subculture on New Year’s Eve is an age-old exercise stored alive with the aid of native Goans even today. As the identity suggests, countless effigies comparable to ancient men, made of hay and ancient clothes, are set on the hearth to signify the destruction of the concerns and ills of the preceding year. Money is generally collected by teenagers to save for subsequent year’s celebrations.
Indulge in luxurious Christmas dinner During the Christmas holidays, you’ll discover something for each festive appetite. From mouthwatering delights like stuffed chicken, roast turkey, pork sorpotel and an assortment of grilled seafood on the menu to the Portuguese-influenced treats such as Bebinca (a Goan forte layer sweet made from eggs, flour, coconut milk and butter) and Goa’s unique Christmas Dodol (a festive, toffee-like sweet), the list is endless. Christmas in Goa can be spent in many ways –partying it up on its beaches, indulging in sumptuous meals or simply by taking the time out to experience the heart and soul of Goa with your family. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags for a Christmas like never before.
