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8 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 6 DECEMBER 2024 CULTURE EXPERIENCE the magic of Christmas in Gozo, where tradi- tion, festive events and breath- taking scenery combine to create an unforgettable holiday getaway filled with culture, celebration and heart warming charm A Festive Island Getaway Gozo, our enchanting sister island, transforms into a winter wonderland during the festive season. The island's unique blend of history, culture, and breathtak- ing scenery provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable holi- day this Christmas. A Tapestry of Tradition Gozo's Christmas celebrations are deeply rooted in tradition and religious significance. The island's inhabitants have for centuries embraced the spirit of the season with heartfelt devotion and fer- vour. The festive period is marked by a series of religious ceremo- nies, including midnight mass and processions, which showcase the strong faith of the Gozitan people. The Christmas story is brought to life through elaborate na- tivity scenes, festive lights, and live re-enactments. The island's charming villages are adorned with twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere. Tradition- al carols fill the air, adding to the festive spirit. The sweet aroma of freshly baked qagħaq tal-għasel and imqaret wafts through the streets, enticing us with their de- licious scents. A Festive Extravaganza Gozo's Christmas celebrations offer a vibrant tapestry of events and activities. From traditional nativity scenes to modern-day festivities, the island is awash with holiday cheer. Bethlehem f 'Għajnsielem: A Living Nativity Bethlehem f 'Għa- jnsielem, the event that has en- chanted thousands of visitors over the years, is a must-see for anyone visiting Gozo during the Christ- mas season. The nativity village is situated adjacent to the Għajn- sielem main square, just a 5-min- ute walk from Mgarr Harbour. Appropriately called "Bethlehem f 'Għajnsielem," this life-size crib, constructed on 20,000 square me- ters of fields on a stretch of land known as Ta' Passi, comes to life during the month of December with about 150 actors taking vis- itors back in time to Judea 2000 years ago. The Annual Christmas Parade: A Festive Procession The Annu- al Christmas Parade in Republic Street, Victoria, is a vibrant cele- bration of the island's festive spirit and creativity. This year's parade will feature a lively marching band, beautifully decorated floats, and will be accompanied by Santa Claus and his elves. The proces- sion will make its way up Repub- lic Street, captivating locals and tourists alike, and will conclude at Independence Square, where D Capitals Band will perform a con- cert to end the festivities on a high note. Christmas Markets: A Treasure Trove of Local Crafts and Deli- cacies Gozo's charming villages come alive during the festive sea- son with a variety of Christmas markets. These markets offer a unique opportunity to discover local crafts, delicacies, and souve- nirs. Visitors can browse through stalls selling handmade orna- ments, traditional Gozitan sweets, artisanal products, and festive decorations. The markets also of- fer a chance to sample sweet and Experience a magical Gozitan