SHILLONG, Dec 25 � Midnight services in churches across the State heralded the advent of Jesus Christ as tourists and locals joined in the festivities with religious fervour, mixed with merriment.
The capital city of Shillong decked up for Christmas and the forthcoming New Year celebrations as government and private buildings as well as street corners were illuminated and decorated with Christmas trees, banners and festoons. Special programmes including traditional Christmas carols and colourful processions have rendered the air festive and solemn.
Tourists flocked to this hill State to participate in the Christmas celebrations as well as to take a taste of the winter season. Individual artistes and gospel bands enthralled crowds with traditional Christmas songs like �Jingle Bells�, �Oh Holy Night� and �Santa Claus Is Coming to Town�.
Hectic last minute shopping and night-long concerts marked the Christmas Eve. Commercial hubs of the city like Police Bazar and Iewduh (Barabazar), one of the biggest markets in the North East, were crowded with people buying clothes, foodstuff and other Christmas items.
Long queues were seen in front of prominent bakeries in the city selling �designer� cakes.
Arch Bishop Dominic Jala said, �This is a festival which allows people to come together as it marks the coming of Christ into this world.
Meghalaya Governor R S Mooshahary and Chief Minister Mukul Sangma wished people a joyful and Merry Christmas. � PTI
