Damascus, Dec. 25 (SANA) Residents of Saydnaya, a historic town north of Damascus, celebrated Christmas Eve on Wednesday with a festive street carnival organized by the Agia Sophia Ceremonial Band of the Melkite Greek Catholic community.
The “Prince of Peace” carnival wound through the town’s main streets, featuring live music, Christmas hymns, and handmade displays of traditional holiday symbols, including the Nativity scene, the star, and the Christmas tree. Religious icons commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ were also on display. Residents and visitors lined the streets to watch the procession.
Father Taher Youssef, parish priest of Agia Sophia, said that the celebration highlighted Christmas as a message of joy and peace, expressing hope that it would inspire unity and reconciliation in Syria and beyond.
Nadia al-Sheikh, head of the ceremonial band, said the performances and artistic displays aimed to reflect the spiritual meaning of Christmas, offering a message of hope for the future.
Local residents welcomed the event, noting that it brought a festive atmosphere to the town. Many described the carnival as an opportunity to strengthen community bonds and promote values of love and peace during the holiday season.
Christmas is one of the most important religious holidays for Christian communities, marking the birth of Jesus Christ. It is traditionally observed with church services, family gatherings, and public celebrations, emphasizing themes of peace, solidarity, and goodwill.
