	Advent Calendar - Day 24
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Thailand

Monk

92% of people in Thailand are Buddhists.

Do you think there is any chance of seeing a sign of Christmas in Thailand?

Answer

Bangkok

Yes! As with many countries, Thailand has adopted some of the festivities of the season. They may not believe in Jesus, but they do enjoy decorating Christmas trees and putting up other decorations.

Thai people love to celebrate! It doesn’t matter if the festival originated in a different country (like Halloween) or that it comes from a completely different religion (like Christian). Give them a good excuse to have fun and they will celebrate just about anything!

There are lights in the streets. Some of the lights are left over from the King's birthday celebrations but others are put up especially for Christmas.

In Thailand, Christmas isn’t a public holiday. However, many of children enjoy celebrating the “fun” side of the festive season. To them, Christmas means, Santa Claus, little angels, Christmas carols and dancing.

Christmas

Christmas Day is a normal working day in Thailand. Thai children go to school on Christmas day. But .....

The students at Sriwittayapaknam School have a special start to their normal school day. You can find out about it on Day 25 of our calendar

Message from Gor, a teenager in Thailand

"On Christmas Day last year, I didn't have a good day because I had to study books to get ready for my exam which started on Christmas day.

But at my old school, Sriwittayapaknam, there was a fun party that happened. In the early morning when the kids got to school they met two Santa Clauses waiting by the gate. And when they walked in a bit they met lots of little angles giving some candies to the students. And in the playground there was a Christmas tree with lots of presents. During the assembly, students sang Christmas songs and watched a play about Mary and Joseph.

Really, we don't celebrate Christmas like Western countries. This is because 95% of Thai people are Buddhists. We just like having fun. So, that is why we sometimes celebrate festivals from other countries. "

The New Year is more special in Thailand than Christmas. It is a time to celebrate with parties and present swapping.

Message from Richard, who has lived in Thailand for the past 14 years:
"At this time of year, people are giving each other cards and presents, but this is mainly connected to the New Year holiday which is just around the corner. Only Christian families will give each other presents on Christmas Day. "

Christmas Day is TOMORROW !

Father Christmas is coming tonight!
Don't forget to leave something out for him.

Be sure to read
'Twas the Night Before Christmas'
A poem to be read to children on Christmas Eve

Can you see Father Christmas (Santa)
coming down the chimney?

The day after Christmas day is known as Boxing Day. Do you know why?

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