India, Dec. 24 -- Christmas Eve is a Christian observance that falls on December 24 in the Gregorian calendar. The day, also referred to as the Vigil of Christmas, is perceived as the culmination of the Advent season.

Christmas Eve kicks off a series of holiday traditions, both religious and non-religious. People attend church for a candlelight service or Midnight Mass, read the account of Jesus' birth from the Book of Luke, put out milk and cookies for Santa, and distribute Christmas cookies and other goodies to neighbors.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Hindustan Times....