The Spotlight issue 1 The Spotlight Magazine Fall /Winter 2014 | Page 44

South Africa

Christmas in South Africa is a public holiday celebrated on 25 December . Many European traditions are maintained despite the distance from Europe.

Christmas trees are set up in homes and the children are given presents in their stockings.[3] Traditional 'fir' Christmas trees are popular and children leave a stocking out for Santa Claus on Christmas Eve. The gift bearer is Santa Claus on Christmas Eve.

The Christmas meal is mince pies, turkey roast beef or a barbecue outdoors. The meal is finished with Christmas Pudding. Christmas Crackers are used to make noise.