| Christmas Traditions in Belgium |
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According to the Christmas traditions in Belgium the people believe that there are two Santa Claus figures, St. Nicholas and Pere Neol.
As tradition has it in Belgium St. Nicholas visits the people twice, especially to the people who speak the Waloon language. The first time he visits them to find out about the children that have been and bad. The good children are left with Christmas presents on December 6th while those that are bad are left with twigs on Christmas.
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The other Santa Claus figure called Pere Neol visits the children with his companion Pere Fouettard. He mostly visits those people who speak French. The main reason of his visit is to find out about the good and bad children. The good children receive chocolates and candies while the bad ones receive a handful of sticks.
People who believe in both these aspects celebrate Christmas on December 6th. The feast of St. Nicholas is considered as a religious occasion. The Christmas celebrations in Belgium go on with people visiting churches and offering prayers. One finds quiet family gatherings on Christmas in Belgium. Special cakes make a great treat for all especially for children on Christmas.
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Christmas gifts are an important part of the Christmas celebrations in Belgium. Christmas gifts are neatly wrapped and placed under Christmas trees. Little children dressed as Santa Claus come to give the Christmas gifts. The Christmas gifts are usually opened on the evening before Christmas, after a Christmas dinner, or the midnight mass, or on Christmas morning.
A variety of ornaments are used to decorate the Christmas trees. Spiced cookies are hung on the branches of Christmas trees. The nativity scenes are important plays on Christmas in Belgium. |
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