Saturday, December 25 2004 13:51 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Panaji: The spirit and joy of Christmas was evident in Goa today (Dec 25, 2004) as the Christian community celebrated the birth of Jesus Christ in a traditional manner in Goa.

The celebrations started last night (Dec 23, 2004) itself with thousands attending midnight mass services organised all over the State attired in their best outfits.

After the service, dances were organised in different localities and the festivities continued till the wee hours of the morning.

The entire city of Panaji has been lit up for the festival with lights adorning trees and street musicians entertaining passers by near the old GMC building promenade.

The promenade, which was built as part of the infrastructure for IFFI, is now being used as a platform for young talent to display their talent to tourists as well as locals.

Homes were also well lit with lights and decorations as well as miniature cribs depicting the birth of baby Jesus. Confectionaries and bakery shops made brisk business as people indulged in some last minute shopping for Christmas goodies.

Both the Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar and Governor S C Jamir have extended their greetings to the people of Goa on the occasion.