Christmas is one of the long-awaited events of the year in most of the countries. So is it in Azerbaijan. However, there are some differences between European celebration and ours. Christmas is not officially celebrated in Azerbaijan. But in reality, with December’s arrival, the whole country starts preparing for Christmas.
The capital city – Baku celebrates Christmas in the most splendid way. From the beginning of December, the city starts transforming. Huge and admirable Christmas trees, beautiful lights through the city, Christmas designs on all vitrines make the city magnificent.
Besides that, there are two Christmas markets in the city center, which have different concepts. One of them is located inside the Icherisheher (Old City). Actually, there is always a small market inside Old City, but in December its design changes and it becomes a Christmas market. Here you can find variety of Christmas gifts such as souvenirs, scarfs and other national items as well as some national food.
The second market is situated in Nizami Street; Fountains Square is one of the central streets of Baku. The market is called “Soyuq Əllər, İsti Ürək” which means, “Cold Hands, Warm Heart” and organized by Nargiz Fund for charity. There is a huge Christmas tree in the middle of the market and it is decorated with many beautiful lights, which make you feel the Christmas spirit. Here you can find souvenirs, books and small stores of famous companies and restaurants. While walking through the market you will feel the spirit of holiday more under the nice music played.
For a more authentic eastern Christmas experience in Baku, you can also get a Christmas guided walking tour. You get to hear more local Christmas stories, Christmas spells (are you intrigued?) and the legends.
Although the majority of the population is not Christian, you can still visit church on Christmas Eve in Baku. The Church of the Virgin Mary’s Immaculate Conception is located in Khatai district of Baku near Khatai metro station, at Orujev str. 2A. Services administrated here in three languages: Azerbaijani, English and Russian.
Addition to that, you can enjoy Christmas dinner in different hotels and restaurants.
Moreover, Yes! It is possible to enjoy and feel the spirit of Christmas in an eastern country.
The author
Nilufar
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