Well, it's that time of the year again when Santa Claus hops on his sleigh and travels around the world, delivering gifts. Governments across borders seem to be cooperating in this important festive task. In an age-old tradition, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) has published its annual Santa Tracker, a website that offers updates on Santa's travels. This tradition is over half a century old, dating back to 1955 when a child accidentally called the Defense Command Center, inquiring about Santa. In keeping with the Christmas spirit, an American Air Force General has reassured the public that recent sightings of mystery drones in New Jersey will not impact Santa's journey through the skies. Watch in for more details!

US General Says 'Mysterious' Drones Will Not Impact Santa's Journey

Bethlehem marked another somber Christmas Eve on Tuesday in the traditional birthplace of Jesus under the shadow of war in Gaza. Watch this report for more details!

Bethlehem's Somber Christmas Celebrations

Bethlehem marked another somber Christmas Eve on Tuesday in the traditional birthplace of Jesus under the shadow of war in Gaza. WION tells you how West Asia is celebrating this Christmas in the shadow of war.

Christmas Celebrations in West Asia

Bethlehem marked another somber Christmas Eve on Tuesday in the traditional birthplace of Jesus under the shadow of war in Gaza. WION tells you how West Asia is celebrating this Christmas in the shadow of war. 

<p>The Kapoors are here! The festival of Christmas is incomplete without the starry appearance of the Kapoor family, which has become an annual tradition. The festival has turned extra special as the Kapoor family's&nbsp;youngest member Raha made a cute appearance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ranbir and Alia arrived for the annual Christmas lunch with their little bundle of joy Raha, who looked thrilled to see the photographers gathered outside&nbsp;Kunal Kapoor's house in Mumbai.&nbsp;She greeted the photographers with her bright smile,&nbsp;and flying kisses as she&nbsp;waved back at them.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ranbir, Alia and Raha's Christmas outing</strong></h2>

<p>To celebrate the festival with the entire Kapoor family, Ranbir and Alia stepped out in the city to attend the family's famous Christmas bash. As their car arrived at the residence, Alia stepped out first to request the photographers not to scream, saying Raha was getting scared.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Later, Ranbir brought Raha out in front of the cameraperson and the two-year-old greeted the paps with a big smile. Alia also joined Raha and Ranbir and the family of three posed together.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Raha saying hi and giving flying kisses to everybody 🥹❤️❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RanbirKapoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RanbirKapoor</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AliaBhatt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AliaBhatt</a> <a href="https://t.co/pj5GM1UAmv">pic.twitter.com/pj5GM1UAmv</a></p>
— ritika ❤️‍🔥 | L&amp;W ERA (@ritikatweetssx) <a href="https://twitter.com/ritikatweetssx/status/1871840549160079743?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The 2-year-old, who has always been the talk of the internet, looked like a doll in a white frock. She tied her hair in a half ponytail with matching white socks and shoes. Meanwhile, her mommy Alia chose a dress that was a perfect outfit for the festival. The <em>Jigra</em> actress wore a red midi dress with a deep V neckline. She kept her look simple with subtle makeup and minimal jewellery. Meanwhile, Ranbir looked handsome in a white shirt, blue-stripped coat and white pants.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My sweethearts ♥️♥️♥️♥️ raha talking so cutely and giving flying kisses ... she looks like a beautiful fairy 🧚‍♂️ 😍.....wen ranbir told her to get down she held him tightly 🤣🤣🥰 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RanbirKapoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RanbirKapoor</a> <a href="https://t.co/sq8n9aJYw3">pic.twitter.com/sq8n9aJYw3</a></p>
— ♥♬ ℙ𝕆𝕠ʲÃ 💗 (@spreadlovejoy22) <a href="https://twitter.com/spreadlovejoy22/status/1871845109559615978?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Just how fast the night changes… 🥹❤️<br />
<br />
RAHA has already grown up so fast <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RanbirKapoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RanbirKapoor</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AliaBhatt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AliaBhatt</a> <a href="https://t.co/MiIUH3qkVS">pic.twitter.com/MiIUH3qkVS</a></p>
— ritika ❤️‍🔥 | L&amp;W ERA (@ritikatweetssx) <a href="https://twitter.com/ritikatweetssx/status/1871841648365461919?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>This is Raha's second Christmas public appearance. Last year, Ranbir and Alia surprised the paps as they revealed the face of their baby to the world for the first time. Since then, Raha has been the internet's favourite star kid and her cute public appearances are always been a trend on different social media handles.&nbsp;</p>


The Kapoors are here! The festival of Christmas is incomplete without the starry appearance of the Kapoor family, which has become an annual tradition. The festival has turned extra special as the Kapoor family's youngest member Raha made a cute appearance.

The Kapoors are here! The festival of Christmas is incomplete without the starry appearance of the Kapoor family, which has become an annual tradition. The festival has turned extra special as the Kapoor family's youngest member Raha made a cute appearance. Ranbir and Alia arrived for the annual Christmas lunch with their little bundle of joy Raha, who looked thrilled to see the photographers gathered outside Kunal Kapoor's house in Mumbai. She greeted the photographers with her bright smile, and flying kisses as she waved back at them. Ranbir, Alia and Raha's Christmas outing To celebrate the festival with the entire Kapoor family, Ranbir and Alia stepped out in the city to attend the family's famous Christmas bash. As their car arrived at the residence, Alia stepped out first to request the photographers not to scream, saying Raha was getting scared. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viral Bhayani (@viralbhayani) × Later, Ranbir brought Raha out in front of the cameraperson and the two-year-old greeted the paps with a big smile. Alia also joined Raha and Ranbir and the family of three posed together. Raha saying hi and giving flying kisses to everybody 🥹❤️❤️#RanbirKapoor #AliaBhatt pic.twitter.com/pj5GM1UAmv — ritika ❤️‍🔥 | L&W ERA (@ritikatweetssx) December 25, 2024 × The 2-year-old, who has always been the talk of the internet, looked like a doll in a white frock. She tied her hair in a half ponytail with matching white socks and shoes. Meanwhile, her mommy Alia chose a dress that was a perfect outfit for the festival. The Jigra actress wore a red midi dress with a deep V neckline. She kept her look simple with subtle makeup and minimal jewellery. Meanwhile, Ranbir looked handsome in a white shirt, blue-stripped coat and white pants. My sweethearts ♥️♥️♥️♥️ raha talking so cutely and giving flying kisses ... she looks like a beautiful fairy 🧚‍♂️ 😍.....wen ranbir told her to get down she held him tightly 🤣🤣🥰 #RanbirKapoor pic.twitter.com/sq8n9aJYw3 — ♥♬ ℙ𝕆𝕠ʲÃ 💗 (@spreadlovejoy22) December 25, 2024 × Just how fast the night changes… 🥹❤️ RAHA has already grown up so fast #RanbirKapoor #AliaBhatt pic.twitter.com/MiIUH3qkVS — ritika ❤️‍🔥 | L&W ERA (@ritikatweetssx) December 25, 2024 × This is Raha's second Christmas public appearance. Last year, Ranbir and Alia surprised the paps as they revealed the face of their baby to the world for the first time. Since then, Raha has been the internet's favourite star kid and her cute public appearances are always been a trend on different social media handles.

Adorable! Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt pose with their daughter Raha on Christmas

The Met Office has confirmed that Brits will wake up to a 'green Christmas' and exceptionally warm weather this year. Watch this report for more details!

UK Met Forecasts 'Green Christmas'

Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris hosted its first Christmas mass since it was reopened.

Notre Dame Celebrates Christmas Masses For First Time After Restoration

<p>A teen, Grayson Whitaker, from Leeds in the UK, has never in his life sat down with his family to enjoy Christmas dinner as he suffers from a rare condition called 'misophonia.’</p>

<p><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p dir="ltr">"I have never had Christmas dinner with my family, so I don't have those nice memories," Grayson said.</p>

<p dir="ltr">This neurological condition triggers extreme emotional reactions to everyday sounds like breathing, yawning, sniffing, and chewing. These noises irk Grayson and make him angry, which makes it feel like swallowing a hard pill for him to enjoy Christmas dinner with his family.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-rare-disease-day-challenges-in-protect-newborns-from-rare-growth-affecting-conditions-695195">Rare Disease Day: Challenges in protecting newborns from rare growth-affecting conditions</a></strong></p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>A life with struggle&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">I have never had Christmas dinner with my family, so I don’t have those nice memories," he told a British tabloid, The Sun. "I’d love to be downstairs with them, but the overwhelming rage keeps me away. I don’t want to take it out on them," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">Although he has tried many treatments, including private therapy and hypnotherapy, seeking a cure remains uncertain.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">His parents, Alex, 51, and Dawn, 54, had let go of his reactions at times, considering it childhood frenzy.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">"I didn’t know how to explain my emotions back then, so they thought I was being a brat," he said. "It wasn’t until I started scratching my legs that they realised something was wrong."<br />
<br />
"My dad once tried to explain my condition to someone, and they accused me of making it up to get benefits," he said. "That’s been one of the hardest things—people just don’t understand."</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Celebrities who've been diagnosed with rare diseases &amp; more</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/celebrities-whove-been-diagnosed-with-rare-diseases-more-695859/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>'Misophonia' effects&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">&gt; Sounds such as chewing, breathing, sniffing, yawning, and even repetitive noises like pen clicking or keyboard tapping are some of the triggering sounds.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">&gt; A soft or low-volume trigger can cause emotional and physical symptoms in an individual who is affected by this.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">&gt; The ones who are affected often have difficulty breathing, palpitations, muscle pain, or losing control. It hits in childhood or even adolescence but the extremity varies from one person to another person.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">The main cause of this condition is unclear presently, but the researchers feel it involves the abnormal connection between the emotional and auditory processing centers of the brain.&nbsp;</p>

<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Efforts for awareness&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr">Respective to the fact that the condition is getting recognised, it is clearly not understood well, and there is no standardised treatment for it. However, the management aid is there to control it, like sound therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and the use of noise-canceling devices used to reduce the triggers.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">Grayson comes with a hope that sharing his story will bring great impact to awareness of misophonia, a condition that remains misunderstood.</p>

<p dir="ltr">"I’d love to be able to suck it up one day and have Christmas dinner with my family and partner. That would mean everything to me," he said.<br />
(<em>With inputs from agencies</em>)&nbsp;</p>


A teen, Grayson Whitaker, from Leeds in the UK, has never in his life sat down with his family to enjoy Christmas dinner as he suffers from a rare condition called 'misophonia.

A teen, Grayson Whitaker, from Leeds in the UK, has never in his life sat down with his family to enjoy Christmas dinner as he suffers from a rare condition called 'misophonia.’ "I have never had Christmas dinner with my family, so I don't have those nice memories," Grayson said. This neurological condition triggers extreme emotional reactions to everyday sounds like breathing, yawning, sniffing, and chewing. These noises irk Grayson and make him angry, which makes it feel like swallowing a hard pill for him to enjoy Christmas dinner with his family. Also Read: Rare Disease Day: Challenges in protecting newborns from rare growth-affecting conditions A life with struggle I have never had Christmas dinner with my family, so I don’t have those nice memories," he told a British tabloid, The Sun. "I’d love to be downstairs with them, but the overwhelming rage keeps me away. I don’t want to take it out on them," he said. Although he has tried many treatments, including private therapy and hypnotherapy, seeking a cure remains uncertain. His parents, Alex, 51, and Dawn, 54, had let go of his reactions at times, considering it childhood frenzy. "I didn’t know how to explain my emotions back then, so they thought I was being a brat," he said. "It wasn’t until I started scratching my legs that they realised something was wrong." "My dad once tried to explain my condition to someone, and they accused me of making it up to get benefits," he said. "That’s been one of the hardest things—people just don’t understand." Watch | Celebrities who've been diagnosed with rare diseases & more 'Misophonia' effects > Sounds such as chewing, breathing, sniffing, yawning, and even repetitive noises like pen clicking or keyboard tapping are some of the triggering sounds. > A soft or low-volume trigger can cause emotional and physical symptoms in an individual who is affected by this. > The ones who are affected often have difficulty breathing, palpitations, muscle pain, or losing control. It hits in childhood or even adolescence but the extremity varies from one person to another person. The main cause of this condition is unclear presently, but the researchers feel it involves the abnormal connection between the emotional and auditory processing centers of the brain. Efforts for awareness Respective to the fact that the condition is getting recognised, it is clearly not understood well, and there is no standardised treatment for it. However, the management aid is there to control it, like sound therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and the use of noise-canceling devices used to reduce the triggers. Grayson comes with a hope that sharing his story will bring great impact to awareness of misophonia, a condition that remains misunderstood. "I’d love to be able to suck it up one day and have Christmas dinner with my family and partner. That would mean everything to me," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

I never had Christmas dinner with family, says a teenager with a rare condition called 'misophonia’.

Well, it's that time of the year again when Santa Claus hops on his sleigh and travels around the world, delivering gifts. Governments across borders seem to be cooperating in this important festive task. 

In an age-old tradition, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) has published its annual Santa Tracker, a website that offers updates on Santa's travels. This tradition is over half a century old, dating back to 1955 when a child accidentally called the Defense Command Center, inquiring about Santa. In keeping with the Christmas spirit, an American Air Force General has reassured the public that recent sightings of mystery drones in New Jersey will not impact Santa's journey through the skies. Watch in for more details!

<p><span class="region">United States</span>
<p>Every Christmas Eve, millions of people—young and old alike—eagerly follow Santa Claus as he travels across the globe, delivering gifts to children. What began as a simple mix-up in 1955 has evolved into one of the most loved holiday traditions, one that’s followed by families all over the world. Managed by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), the Santa Tracker uses high-tech tools and dedicated volunteers to track Santa’s sleigh in real-time, blending festive fun with state-of-the-art monitoring.</p></p>
<h2><strong>Origin of NORAD Santa Tracker</strong></h2>
<p>The NORAD Santa Tracker has an unexpected origin story. In 1955, a Colorado Springs department store mistakenly printed the wrong phone number in an ad that invited children to call Santa. Instead of connecting to the North Pole, the number rang through to the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD), NORAD’s predecessor. When a child called the base asking to speak to Santa, Colonel Harry Shoup, who was on duty, decided to have a little fun. He assured the child that his team was tracking Santa and would provide updates throughout the night.</p>
<p>What started as a playful, unplanned moment quickly became a tradition. Every Christmas Eve, the military base began receiving more and more calls from children, eager to know where Santa was. After CONAD became NORAD in 1958, the tradition continued, and NORAD became the official organisation responsible for tracking Santa on his worldwide journey.</p>
<h2><strong>How Santa Journeys from Southern Pacific to Your Living Room</strong></h2>
<p>Santa’s journey kicks off at the International Date Line in the Pacific Ocean, heading west to visit the South Pacific. From there, he makes stops in New Zealand and Australia, then travels through Japan, Asia, Africa, and Western Europe, before crossing over to the Americas. While NORAD can predict his general path, the journey is always affected by the unpredictability of weather, making his exact arrival time at each house a bit of a mystery.</p>
<p>NORAD’s website provides hourly updates on Santa’s location as he crosses time zones and continents. It’s believed that Santa only visits homes when children are asleep, which is why he typically arrives between 9 p.m. and midnight, depending on where you live. If children are still awake when he arrives, he’ll move on to the next house, only returning when they’ve fallen asleep.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-sleigh-must-be-in-the-shop-santa-on-bike-gets-away-from-florida-cops-in-high-speed-chase-786439"><strong>Also read: Watch- Sleigh must be in the shop: Santa on bike gets away from Florida cops in high-speed chase</strong></a></p>
<h2><strong>Tracking Santa in Real-Time</strong></h2>
<p>Today, NORAD’s Santa Tracker has become a global phenomenon. Over 100,000 children call NORAD’s dedicated hotline each year to ask about Santa’s whereabouts. Millions more follow Santa’s journey online, with updates available in nine languages, making it accessible to families around the world. NORAD has created a user-friendly online platform with a website and mobile apps, allowing families to track Santa in real time, from his North Pole launch to his final stop at the International Date Line.</p>
<p>One of the most intriguing parts of Santa’s journey, according to NORAD, is how he manages to visit the entire world in just one night. The military organization humorously suggests that the "only logical explanation" is that Santa operates within a unique "time-space continuum." They report that Santa doesn’t experience time the same way humans do—what feels like 24 hours to us might be days, weeks, or even months for Santa. This magical timeline helps him deliver presents to all the good children in the world.</p>
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<h2><strong>How to Track Santa?</strong></h2>
<p>NORAD makes it simple for families to follow Santa’s progress. The official Santa Tracker website, which launched early in December, features a countdown to Christmas Eve along with interactive games and fun activities. On Christmas Eve, the tracker goes live at 4 a.m. ET, providing continuous updates on Santa’s location until 2 a.m. on Christmas Day.</p>
<p>For mobile users, NORAD offers a free Santa Tracker app available for download on both Apple and Google platforms. Google also offers its version of a Santa tracker, complete with a countdown and interactive games. As Santa takes flight, families have plenty of options for tracking his journey, each offering a slightly different experience.</p>
<h2><strong>Government Shutdowns Do Not Bother Santa</strong></h2>
<p>NORAD’s Santa Tracker has become so iconic that it’s impervious to typical political hurdles. Even if the U.S. government shuts down, NORAD assures the public that the Santa Tracker will continue to operate without disruption. On Christmas Eve, NORAD will once again provide real-time updates, ensuring that this beloved tradition continues, no matter what.</p>
<p>Normally, NORAD’s mission involves defending North American airspace from potential threats like missiles and surveillance objects. But on Christmas Eve, the highly trained personnel at NORAD switch gears to answer questions from children asking about Santa’s whereabouts, like, “When will Santa arrive at my house?” or “Am I on the naughty or nice list?”</p>
<p><strong>Watch | Huge Crowd Welcomes Santa Claus</strong></p>
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<h2><strong>A Joyous Holiday Tradition</strong></h2>
<p>What started as a simple, spontaneous interaction between a child and a military officer in 1955 has grown into a global tradition. The NORAD Santa Tracker now captivates millions of people around the world, spreading holiday cheer and bringing families together. Whether you’re following Santa on NORAD’s tracker, enjoying his journey on other platforms, or just taking in the magic of the season, one thing is certain: the tradition of tracking Santa will continue for generations to come.</p>
<p>It’s a reminder that sometimes the most magical traditions have the most unexpected beginnings, and that the spirit of Christmas can bring people from all walks of life together, no matter where they are in the world.</p>
<h2><strong>History of Santa Claus</strong></h2>
<p>The modern-day figure of Santa Claus is based on St. Nicholas, who was born in the 4th century in Asia Minor (now part of Turkey) to wealthy parents, both of whom died in an epidemic. He was raised by his uncle, a bishop.Following the teachings of Jesus Christ, "sell what you own and give the money to the poor," Nicholas used his entire inheritance to aid the poor, sick, and needy. Because of his acts of kindness, St. Nicholas is seen as a miracle worker in the East and is considered the patron saint of children and sailors in the West. He became the Bishop of Myra at a young age.</p>
<p>The tradition of hanging stockings for presents originates from a well-known story about St. Nicholas.A poor man with three daughters couldn't afford dowries to marry them off. One night, St. Nicholas secretly dropped a bag of gold down the chimney of the man's house. The bag landed in a stocking that was drying by the fire. The same act was repeated for the second daughter. The father, curious, caught St. Nicholas in the act of giving a bag of gold to the third daughter. Though St. Nicholas asked him not to tell anyone, the story spread quickly. From then on, when someone received a secret gift, it was believed to be from Nicholas.</p>
<h2><strong>Why Does Santa love his Reindeer?</strong></h2>
<p>Reindeer symbolize wisdom, resourcefulness, cleverness, knowledge, creativity, inventiveness and cleverness. They are honored for their nobility and representing continuation of the tribe. Other members of herbivorous Cervidae family are deer, elk and moose. Each member has its own unique symbolism based on its attributes. Deer symbolizes gentleness and caring; elk symbolises stamina and agility; moose symbolizes self-esteem and joyful spirit of sharing accomplishments.</p>
<p>Reindeer are cunning survivalists and able to live in brutal environments. They are symbolic of savvy knowledge; observing the reindeer pawing beneath packed snow to find herbs and grasses led indigenous peoples to medicinal herbs. As one of the first beasts that humankind relied on for food, supplies, clothing and tools, the reindeer gained high status. Thus it is an animal of nobility and worthiness.</p>
<h2><strong>Why Does Santa Wear Red?</strong></h2>
<p>Santa Claus's red suit has its roots in both tradition and marketing. In the 19th century, illustrator Thomas Nast popularised the image of Santa wearing red, drawing from European folklore. The colour symbolises warmth, cheer, and festivity, reinforcing Santa's joyful persona. Over time, this image has become so entrenched in popular culture that it’s now synonymous with the holiday figure, far beyond its commercial beginnings.</p>
<p><em>(Inputs from other sources)</em></p>


Managed by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), the Santa Tracker uses high-tech tools and dedicated volunteers to track Santa’s sleigh in real-time, blending festive fun with state-of-the-art monitoring.



United States Every Christmas Eve, millions of people—young and old alike—eagerly follow Santa Claus as he travels across the globe, delivering gifts to children. What began as a simple mix-up in 1955 has evolved into one of the most loved holiday traditions, one that’s followed by families all over the world. Managed by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), the Santa Tracker uses high-tech tools and dedicated volunteers to track Santa’s sleigh in real-time, blending festive fun with state-of-the-art monitoring. Origin of NORAD Santa Tracker The NORAD Santa Tracker has an unexpected origin story. In 1955, a Colorado Springs department store mistakenly printed the wrong phone number in an ad that invited children to call Santa. Instead of connecting to the North Pole, the number rang through to the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD), NORAD’s predecessor. When a child called the base asking to speak to Santa, Colonel Harry Shoup, who was on duty, decided to have a little fun. He assured the child that his team was tracking Santa and would provide updates throughout the night. What started as a playful, unplanned moment quickly became a tradition. Every Christmas Eve, the military base began receiving more and more calls from children, eager to know where Santa was. After CONAD became NORAD in 1958, the tradition continued, and NORAD became the official organisation responsible for tracking Santa on his worldwide journey. How Santa Journeys from Southern Pacific to Your Living Room Santa’s journey kicks off at the International Date Line in the Pacific Ocean, heading west to visit the South Pacific. From there, he makes stops in New Zealand and Australia, then travels through Japan, Asia, Africa, and Western Europe, before crossing over to the Americas. While NORAD can predict his general path, the journey is always affected by the unpredictability of weather, making his exact arrival time at each house a bit of a mystery. NORAD’s website provides hourly updates on Santa’s location as he crosses time zones and continents. It’s believed that Santa only visits homes when children are asleep, which is why he typically arrives between 9 p.m. and midnight, depending on where you live. If children are still awake when he arrives, he’ll move on to the next house, only returning when they’ve fallen asleep. Also read: Watch- Sleigh must be in the shop: Santa on bike gets away from Florida cops in high-speed chase Tracking Santa in Real-Time Today, NORAD’s Santa Tracker has become a global phenomenon. Over 100,000 children call NORAD’s dedicated hotline each year to ask about Santa’s whereabouts. Millions more follow Santa’s journey online, with updates available in nine languages, making it accessible to families around the world. NORAD has created a user-friendly online platform with a website and mobile apps, allowing families to track Santa in real time, from his North Pole launch to his final stop at the International Date Line. One of the most intriguing parts of Santa’s journey, according to NORAD, is how he manages to visit the entire world in just one night. The military organization humorously suggests that the "only logical explanation" is that Santa operates within a unique "time-space continuum." They report that Santa doesn’t experience time the same way humans do—what feels like 24 hours to us might be days, weeks, or even months for Santa. This magical timeline helps him deliver presents to all the good children in the world. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Official NORAD Tracks Santa! (@noradtrackssanta_official) × How to Track Santa? NORAD makes it simple for families to follow Santa’s progress. The official Santa Tracker website, which launched early in December, features a countdown to Christmas Eve along with interactive games and fun activities. On Christmas Eve, the tracker goes live at 4 a.m. ET, providing continuous updates on Santa’s location until 2 a.m. on Christmas Day. For mobile users, NORAD offers a free Santa Tracker app available for download on both Apple and Google platforms. Google also offers its version of a Santa tracker, complete with a countdown and interactive games. As Santa takes flight, families have plenty of options for tracking his journey, each offering a slightly different experience. Government Shutdowns Do Not Bother Santa NORAD’s Santa Tracker has become so iconic that it’s impervious to typical political hurdles. Even if the U.S. government shuts down, NORAD assures the public that the Santa Tracker will continue to operate without disruption. On Christmas Eve, NORAD will once again provide real-time updates, ensuring that this beloved tradition continues, no matter what. Normally, NORAD’s mission involves defending North American airspace from potential threats like missiles and surveillance objects. But on Christmas Eve, the highly trained personnel at NORAD switch gears to answer questions from children asking about Santa’s whereabouts, like, “When will Santa arrive at my house?” or “Am I on the naughty or nice list?” Watch | Huge Crowd Welcomes Santa Claus × A Joyous Holiday Tradition What started as a simple, spontaneous interaction between a child and a military officer in 1955 has grown into a global tradition. The NORAD Santa Tracker now captivates millions of people around the world, spreading holiday cheer and bringing families together. Whether you’re following Santa on NORAD’s tracker, enjoying his journey on other platforms, or just taking in the magic of the season, one thing is certain: the tradition of tracking Santa will continue for generations to come. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most magical traditions have the most unexpected beginnings, and that the spirit of Christmas can bring people from all walks of life together, no matter where they are in the world. History of Santa Claus The modern-day figure of Santa Claus is based on St. Nicholas, who was born in the 4th century in Asia Minor (now part of Turkey) to wealthy parents, both of whom died in an epidemic. He was raised by his uncle, a bishop.Following the teachings of Jesus Christ, "sell what you own and give the money to the poor," Nicholas used his entire inheritance to aid the poor, sick, and needy. Because of his acts of kindness, St. Nicholas is seen as a miracle worker in the East and is considered the patron saint of children and sailors in the West. He became the Bishop of Myra at a young age. The tradition of hanging stockings for presents originates from a well-known story about St. Nicholas.A poor man with three daughters couldn't afford dowries to marry them off. One night, St. Nicholas secretly dropped a bag of gold down the chimney of the man's house. The bag landed in a stocking that was drying by the fire. The same act was repeated for the second daughter. The father, curious, caught St. Nicholas in the act of giving a bag of gold to the third daughter. Though St. Nicholas asked him not to tell anyone, the story spread quickly. From then on, when someone received a secret gift, it was believed to be from Nicholas. Why Does Santa love his Reindeer? Reindeer symbolize wisdom, resourcefulness, cleverness, knowledge, creativity, inventiveness and cleverness. They are honored for their nobility and representing continuation of the tribe. Other members of herbivorous Cervidae family are deer, elk and moose. Each member has its own unique symbolism based on its attributes. Deer symbolizes gentleness and caring; elk symbolises stamina and agility; moose symbolizes self-esteem and joyful spirit of sharing accomplishments. Reindeer are cunning survivalists and able to live in brutal environments. They are symbolic of savvy knowledge; observing the reindeer pawing beneath packed snow to find herbs and grasses led indigenous peoples to medicinal herbs. As one of the first beasts that humankind relied on for food, supplies, clothing and tools, the reindeer gained high status. Thus it is an animal of nobility and worthiness. Why Does Santa Wear Red? Santa Claus's red suit has its roots in both tradition and marketing. In the 19th century, illustrator Thomas Nast popularised the image of Santa wearing red, drawing from European folklore. The colour symbolises warmth, cheer, and festivity, reinforcing Santa's joyful persona. Over time, this image has become so entrenched in popular culture that it’s now synonymous with the holiday figure, far beyond its commercial beginnings. (Inputs from other sources)

NORAD’s Santa Tracker: A holiday tradition that brings the world closer

As the world soaks in holiday spirit, Christmas markets have become a must go for many. The popularity of these markets have soared in India, here's a look at the festive wonderland in the heart in New Delhi with WION's Correspondent Nikita Singh. Watch in for more details!

Christmas Cheer Takes Over India, Markets Abuzz With Festive Spirit

Bethlehem is gearing up for another Christmas celebration, but this year’s festivities are overshadowed by the ongoing Gaza war. The historic city, known for its deep religious significance, faces a somber holiday season as tensions in the region continue to affect both local residents and pilgrims.



Bethlehem Prepares for Christmas Amid Ongoing Gaza Conflict

<p><span class="region">New Delhi, India</span>
<p>Christmas is almost here, a season to spread joy, love and celebration across the world. Celebrated on December 25, this holiday brings together families, friends and loved ones to cherish the moments, exchange gifts and share feasts.</p></p>
<p>According to the New Testament, Christmas marks the birthday of Lord Jesus Christ, who was born to Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem. Christ is considered the messiah and saviour of mankind according to the prophecies.</p>
<p>Spread the Christmas spirit with your loved ones with these heartfelt messages, greetings and quotes in your wishes.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/90-year-old-cheng-chen-with-parkinsons-lifts-35-kg-in-heartwarming-senior-weightlifting-contest-786242">90-year-old Cheng Chen with Parkinson's lifts 35 kg in heartwarming senior weightlifting contest</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>Christmas 2024: Wishes and messages</strong></h2>
<p>“May the magic of Christmas bring you endless happiness and joy. Have a wonderful holiday season!”</p>
<p>“Wishing you a holiday season full of warmth, joy, and magical memories.”</p>
<p>“Sending you Christmas cheer wrapped in warmth and love. May your holidays be as beautiful as you are!”</p>
<p>“Merry Christmas and happy New Year! May the holiday season offer you calmness, and the new year bring you wonderful business adventures.”</p>
<p>“May this festive season bring happiness and success to you and your family.”</p>
<p>“May this Christmas bring you closer to those you hold dear and shower you with happiness and success.”</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-man-to-feature-in-guinness-world-record-2025-book-for-stacking-most-jenga-blocks-786260">Canadian man to feature in Guinness World Record 2025 book for stacking most Jenga blocks</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>Christmas 2024: Quotes to share</strong></h2>
<p>“I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.” – Charles Dickens</p>
<p>“Our hearts grow tender with childhood memories and love of kindred, and we are better throughout the year for having, in spirit, become a child again at Christmastime.” – Laura Ingalls Wilder</p>
<p>“My idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others. Come to think of it, why do we have to wait for Christmas to do that?” – Bob Hope</p>
<p>“Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful. ” – Norman Vincent Peale</p>
<p>“Christmas, children, is not a date. It is a state of mind. ” – Mary Ellen Chase</p>
<p>“Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.” – Charles M. Schulz</p>


Spread the Christmas spirit with your loved ones with these heartfelt messages, greetings and quotes in your wishes to them



New Delhi, India Christmas is almost here, a season to spread joy, love and celebration across the world. Celebrated on December 25, this holiday brings together families, friends and loved ones to cherish the moments, exchange gifts and share feasts. According to the New Testament, Christmas marks the birthday of Lord Jesus Christ, who was born to Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem. Christ is considered the messiah and saviour of mankind according to the prophecies. Spread the Christmas spirit with your loved ones with these heartfelt messages, greetings and quotes in your wishes. Also read | 90-year-old Cheng Chen with Parkinson's lifts 35 kg in heartwarming senior weightlifting contest Christmas 2024: Wishes and messages “May the magic of Christmas bring you endless happiness and joy. Have a wonderful holiday season!” “Wishing you a holiday season full of warmth, joy, and magical memories.” “Sending you Christmas cheer wrapped in warmth and love. May your holidays be as beautiful as you are!” “Merry Christmas and happy New Year! May the holiday season offer you calmness, and the new year bring you wonderful business adventures.” “May this festive season bring happiness and success to you and your family.” “May this Christmas bring you closer to those you hold dear and shower you with happiness and success.” Also read | Canadian man to feature in Guinness World Record 2025 book for stacking most Jenga blocks Christmas 2024: Quotes to share “I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.” – Charles Dickens “Our hearts grow tender with childhood memories and love of kindred, and we are better throughout the year for having, in spirit, become a child again at Christmastime.” – Laura Ingalls Wilder “My idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others. Come to think of it, why do we have to wait for Christmas to do that?” – Bob Hope “Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful. ” – Norman Vincent Peale “Christmas, children, is not a date. It is a state of mind. ” – Mary Ellen Chase “Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.” – Charles M. Schulz

Christmas 2024: Wishes, messages, greetings, and quotes 

Its the Christmas season and as the world eagerly awaits gifts and presents...



Santa Claus has departed from his home in the arctic circle...

Christmas: Bidding Adieu Santa Sets-Off On His Sleigh

Huge Crowd Welcomes Santa Claus

<p>Every Christmas Eve, millions of people—young and old alike—eagerly follow Santa Claus as he travels across the globe, delivering gifts to children. What began as a simple mix-up in 1955 has evolved into one of the most loved holiday traditions, one that’s followed by families all over the world. Managed by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), the Santa Tracker uses high-tech tools and dedicated volunteers to track Santa’s sleigh in real-time, blending festive fun with state-of-the-art monitoring.</p>

<h2><strong>Origin of NORAD Santa Tracker</strong></h2>

<p>The NORAD Santa Tracker has an unexpected origin story. In 1955, a Colorado Springs department store mistakenly printed the wrong phone number in an ad that invited children to call Santa. Instead of connecting to the North Pole, the number rang through to the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD), NORAD’s predecessor. When a child called the base asking to speak to Santa, Colonel Harry Shoup, who was on duty, decided to have a little fun. He assured the child that his team was tracking Santa and would provide updates throughout the night.</p>

<p>What started as a playful, unplanned moment quickly became a tradition. Every Christmas Eve, the military base began receiving more and more calls from children, eager to know where Santa was. After CONAD became NORAD in 1958, the tradition continued, and NORAD became the official organisation responsible for tracking Santa on his worldwide journey.</p>

<h2><strong>How Santa Journeys from Southern Pacific to Your Living Room</strong></h2>

<p>Santa’s journey kicks off at the International Date Line in the Pacific Ocean, heading west to visit the South Pacific. From there, he makes stops in New Zealand and Australia, then travels through Japan, Asia, Africa, and Western Europe, before crossing over to the Americas. While NORAD can predict his general path, the journey is always affected by the unpredictability of weather, making his exact arrival time at each house a bit of a mystery.</p>

<p>NORAD’s website provides hourly updates on Santa’s location as he crosses time zones and continents. It’s believed that Santa only visits homes when children are asleep, which is why he typically arrives between 9 p.m. and midnight, depending on where you live. If children are still awake when he arrives, he’ll move on to the next house, only returning when they’ve fallen asleep.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-sleigh-must-be-in-the-shop-santa-on-bike-gets-away-from-florida-cops-in-high-speed-chase-786439"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Watch- Sleigh must be in the shop: Santa on bike gets away from Florida cops in high-speed chase</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Tracking Santa in Real-Time</strong></h2>

<p>Today, NORAD’s Santa Tracker has become a global phenomenon. Over 100,000 children call NORAD’s dedicated hotline each year to ask about Santa’s whereabouts. Millions more follow Santa’s journey online, with updates available in nine languages, making it accessible to families around the world. NORAD has created a user-friendly online platform with a website and mobile apps, allowing families to track Santa in real time, from his North Pole launch to his final stop at the International Date Line.</p>

<p>One of the most intriguing parts of Santa’s journey, according to NORAD, is how he manages to visit the entire world in just one night. The military organization humorously suggests that the "only logical explanation" is that Santa operates within a unique "time-space continuum." They report that Santa doesn’t experience time the same way humans do—what feels like 24 hours to us might be days, weeks, or even months for Santa. This magical timeline helps him deliver presents to all the good children in the world.</p>

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<h2><strong>How to Track Santa?</strong></h2>

<p>NORAD makes it simple for families to follow Santa’s progress. The official Santa Tracker website, which launched early in December, features a countdown to Christmas Eve along with interactive games and fun activities. On Christmas Eve, the tracker goes live at 4 a.m. ET, providing continuous updates on Santa’s location until 2 a.m. on Christmas Day.</p>

<p>For mobile users, NORAD offers a free Santa Tracker app available for download on both Apple and Google platforms. Google also offers its version of a Santa tracker, complete with a countdown and interactive games. As Santa takes flight, families have plenty of options for tracking his journey, each offering a slightly different experience.</p>

<h2><strong>Government Shutdowns Do Not Bother Santa</strong></h2>

<p>NORAD’s Santa Tracker has become so iconic that it’s impervious to typical political hurdles. Even if the U.S. government shuts down, NORAD assures the public that the Santa Tracker will continue to operate without disruption. On Christmas Eve, NORAD will once again provide real-time updates, ensuring that this beloved tradition continues, no matter what.</p>

<p>Normally, NORAD’s mission involves defending North American airspace from potential threats like missiles and surveillance objects. But on Christmas Eve, the highly trained personnel at NORAD switch gears to answer questions from children asking about Santa’s whereabouts, like, “When will Santa arrive at my house?” or “Am I on the naughty or nice list?”</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Huge Crowd Welcomes Santa Claus</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>A Joyous Holiday Tradition</strong></h2>

<p>What started as a simple, spontaneous interaction between a child and a military officer in 1955 has grown into a global tradition. The NORAD Santa Tracker now captivates millions of people around the world, spreading holiday cheer and bringing families together. Whether you’re following Santa on NORAD’s tracker, enjoying his journey on other platforms, or just taking in the magic of the season, one thing is certain: the tradition of tracking Santa will continue for generations to come.</p>

<p>It’s a reminder that sometimes the most magical traditions have the most unexpected beginnings, and that the spirit of Christmas can bring people from all walks of life together, no matter where they are in the world.</p>

<h2><strong>History of Santa Claus</strong></h2>

<p>The modern-day figure of Santa Claus is based on St. Nicholas, who was born in the 4th century in Asia Minor (now part of Turkey) to wealthy parents, both of whom died in an epidemic. He was raised by his uncle, a bishop.Following the teachings of Jesus Christ, "sell what you own and give the money to the poor," Nicholas used his entire inheritance to aid the poor, sick, and needy. Because of his acts of kindness, St. Nicholas is seen as a miracle worker in the East and is considered the patron saint of children and sailors in the West. He became the Bishop of Myra at a young age.</p>

<p>The tradition of hanging stockings for presents originates from a well-known story about St. Nicholas.A poor man with three daughters couldn't afford dowries to marry them off. One night, St. Nicholas secretly dropped a bag of gold down the chimney of the man's house. The bag landed in a stocking that was drying by the fire. The same act was repeated for the second daughter. The father, curious, caught St. Nicholas in the act of giving a bag of gold to the third daughter. Though St. Nicholas asked him not to tell anyone, the story spread quickly. From then on, when someone received a secret gift, it was believed to be from Nicholas.</p>

<h2><strong>Why Does Santa love his Reindeer?</strong></h2>

<p>Reindeer symbolize wisdom, resourcefulness, cleverness, knowledge, creativity, inventiveness and cleverness. They are honored for their nobility and representing continuation of the tribe. Other members of herbivorous Cervidae family are deer, elk and moose. Each member has its own unique symbolism based on its attributes. Deer symbolizes gentleness and caring; elk symbolises stamina and agility; moose symbolizes self-esteem and joyful spirit of sharing accomplishments.</p>

<p>Reindeer are cunning survivalists and able to live in brutal environments. They are symbolic of savvy knowledge; observing the reindeer pawing beneath packed snow to find herbs and grasses led indigenous peoples to medicinal herbs. As one of the first beasts that humankind relied on for food, supplies, clothing and tools, the reindeer gained high status. Thus it is an animal of nobility and worthiness.</p>

<h2><strong>Why Does Santa Wear Red?</strong></h2>

<p>Santa Claus's red suit has its roots in both tradition and marketing. In the 19th century, illustrator Thomas Nast popularised the image of Santa wearing red, drawing from European folklore. The colour symbolises warmth, cheer, and festivity, reinforcing Santa's joyful persona. Over time, this image has become so entrenched in popular culture that it’s now synonymous with the holiday figure, far beyond its commercial beginnings.</p>

<p><em>(Inputs from other sources)</em></p>


Every Christmas Eve, millions of people—young and old alike—eagerly follow Santa Claus as he travels across the globe, delivering gifts to children. What began as a simple mix-up in 1955 has evolved into one of the most loved holiday traditions, one that’s followed by families all over the world.

Every Christmas Eve, millions of people—young and old alike—eagerly follow Santa Claus as he travels across the globe, delivering gifts to children. What began as a simple mix-up in 1955 has evolved into one of the most loved holiday traditions, one that’s followed by families all over the world. Managed by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), the Santa Tracker uses high-tech tools and dedicated volunteers to track Santa’s sleigh in real-time, blending festive fun with state-of-the-art monitoring. Origin of NORAD Santa Tracker The NORAD Santa Tracker has an unexpected origin story. In 1955, a Colorado Springs department store mistakenly printed the wrong phone number in an ad that invited children to call Santa. Instead of connecting to the North Pole, the number rang through to the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD), NORAD’s predecessor. When a child called the base asking to speak to Santa, Colonel Harry Shoup, who was on duty, decided to have a little fun. He assured the child that his team was tracking Santa and would provide updates throughout the night. What started as a playful, unplanned moment quickly became a tradition. Every Christmas Eve, the military base began receiving more and more calls from children, eager to know where Santa was. After CONAD became NORAD in 1958, the tradition continued, and NORAD became the official organisation responsible for tracking Santa on his worldwide journey. How Santa Journeys from Southern Pacific to Your Living Room Santa’s journey kicks off at the International Date Line in the Pacific Ocean, heading west to visit the South Pacific. From there, he makes stops in New Zealand and Australia, then travels through Japan, Asia, Africa, and Western Europe, before crossing over to the Americas. While NORAD can predict his general path, the journey is always affected by the unpredictability of weather, making his exact arrival time at each house a bit of a mystery. NORAD’s website provides hourly updates on Santa’s location as he crosses time zones and continents. It’s believed that Santa only visits homes when children are asleep, which is why he typically arrives between 9 p.m. and midnight, depending on where you live. If children are still awake when he arrives, he’ll move on to the next house, only returning when they’ve fallen asleep. Also read: Watch- Sleigh must be in the shop: Santa on bike gets away from Florida cops in high-speed chase Tracking Santa in Real-Time Today, NORAD’s Santa Tracker has become a global phenomenon. Over 100,000 children call NORAD’s dedicated hotline each year to ask about Santa’s whereabouts. Millions more follow Santa’s journey online, with updates available in nine languages, making it accessible to families around the world. NORAD has created a user-friendly online platform with a website and mobile apps, allowing families to track Santa in real time, from his North Pole launch to his final stop at the International Date Line. One of the most intriguing parts of Santa’s journey, according to NORAD, is how he manages to visit the entire world in just one night. The military organization humorously suggests that the "only logical explanation" is that Santa operates within a unique "time-space continuum." They report that Santa doesn’t experience time the same way humans do—what feels like 24 hours to us might be days, weeks, or even months for Santa. This magical timeline helps him deliver presents to all the good children in the world. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Official NORAD Tracks Santa! (@noradtrackssanta_official) × How to Track Santa? NORAD makes it simple for families to follow Santa’s progress. The official Santa Tracker website, which launched early in December, features a countdown to Christmas Eve along with interactive games and fun activities. On Christmas Eve, the tracker goes live at 4 a.m. ET, providing continuous updates on Santa’s location until 2 a.m. on Christmas Day. For mobile users, NORAD offers a free Santa Tracker app available for download on both Apple and Google platforms. Google also offers its version of a Santa tracker, complete with a countdown and interactive games. As Santa takes flight, families have plenty of options for tracking his journey, each offering a slightly different experience. Government Shutdowns Do Not Bother Santa NORAD’s Santa Tracker has become so iconic that it’s impervious to typical political hurdles. Even if the U.S. government shuts down, NORAD assures the public that the Santa Tracker will continue to operate without disruption. On Christmas Eve, NORAD will once again provide real-time updates, ensuring that this beloved tradition continues, no matter what. Normally, NORAD’s mission involves defending North American airspace from potential threats like missiles and surveillance objects. But on Christmas Eve, the highly trained personnel at NORAD switch gears to answer questions from children asking about Santa’s whereabouts, like, “When will Santa arrive at my house?” or “Am I on the naughty or nice list?” Watch | Huge Crowd Welcomes Santa Claus × A Joyous Holiday Tradition What started as a simple, spontaneous interaction between a child and a military officer in 1955 has grown into a global tradition. The NORAD Santa Tracker now captivates millions of people around the world, spreading holiday cheer and bringing families together. Whether you’re following Santa on NORAD’s tracker, enjoying his journey on other platforms, or just taking in the magic of the season, one thing is certain: the tradition of tracking Santa will continue for generations to come. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most magical traditions have the most unexpected beginnings, and that the spirit of Christmas can bring people from all walks of life together, no matter where they are in the world. History of Santa Claus The modern-day figure of Santa Claus is based on St. Nicholas, who was born in the 4th century in Asia Minor (now part of Turkey) to wealthy parents, both of whom died in an epidemic. He was raised by his uncle, a bishop.Following the teachings of Jesus Christ, "sell what you own and give the money to the poor," Nicholas used his entire inheritance to aid the poor, sick, and needy. Because of his acts of kindness, St. Nicholas is seen as a miracle worker in the East and is considered the patron saint of children and sailors in the West. He became the Bishop of Myra at a young age. The tradition of hanging stockings for presents originates from a well-known story about St. Nicholas.A poor man with three daughters couldn't afford dowries to marry them off. One night, St. Nicholas secretly dropped a bag of gold down the chimney of the man's house. The bag landed in a stocking that was drying by the fire. The same act was repeated for the second daughter. The father, curious, caught St. Nicholas in the act of giving a bag of gold to the third daughter. Though St. Nicholas asked him not to tell anyone, the story spread quickly. From then on, when someone received a secret gift, it was believed to be from Nicholas. Why Does Santa love his Reindeer? Reindeer symbolize wisdom, resourcefulness, cleverness, knowledge, creativity, inventiveness and cleverness. They are honored for their nobility and representing continuation of the tribe. Other members of herbivorous Cervidae family are deer, elk and moose. Each member has its own unique symbolism based on its attributes. Deer symbolizes gentleness and caring; elk symbolises stamina and agility; moose symbolizes self-esteem and joyful spirit of sharing accomplishments. Reindeer are cunning survivalists and able to live in brutal environments. They are symbolic of savvy knowledge; observing the reindeer pawing beneath packed snow to find herbs and grasses led indigenous peoples to medicinal herbs. As one of the first beasts that humankind relied on for food, supplies, clothing and tools, the reindeer gained high status. Thus it is an animal of nobility and worthiness. Why Does Santa Wear Red? Santa Claus's red suit has its roots in both tradition and marketing. In the 19th century, illustrator Thomas Nast popularised the image of Santa wearing red, drawing from European folklore. The colour symbolises warmth, cheer, and festivity, reinforcing Santa's joyful persona. Over time, this image has become so entrenched in popular culture that it’s now synonymous with the holiday figure, far beyond its commercial beginnings. (Inputs from other sources)

Bethlehem is gearing up for another Christmas celebration, but this year’s festivities are overshadowed by the ongoing Gaza war. The historic city, known for its deep religious significance, faces a somber holiday season as tensions in the region continue to affect both local residents and pilgrims.

<p>Christmas is almost here, a season to spread joy, love and celebration across the world. Celebrated on December 25, this holiday brings together families, friends and loved ones to cherish the moments, exchange gifts and share feasts.</p>

<p>According to the New Testament, Christmas marks the birthday of Lord Jesus Christ, who was born to Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem. Christ is considered the messiah and saviour of mankind according to the prophecies.</p>

<p>Spread the Christmas spirit with your loved ones with these heartfelt messages, greetings and quotes in your wishes.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/90-year-old-cheng-chen-with-parkinsons-lifts-35-kg-in-heartwarming-senior-weightlifting-contest-786242">90-year-old Cheng Chen with Parkinson's lifts 35 kg in heartwarming senior weightlifting contest</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Christmas 2024: Wishes and messages</strong></h2>

<p>“May the magic of Christmas bring you endless happiness and joy. Have a wonderful holiday season!”</p>

<p>“Wishing you a holiday season full of warmth, joy, and magical memories.”</p>

<p>“Sending you Christmas cheer wrapped in warmth and love. May your holidays be as beautiful as you are!”</p>

<p>“Merry Christmas and happy New Year! May the holiday season offer you calmness, and the new year bring you wonderful business adventures.”</p>

<p>“May this festive season bring happiness and success to you and your family.”</p>

<p>“May this Christmas bring you closer to those you hold dear and shower you with happiness and success.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-man-to-feature-in-guinness-world-record-2025-book-for-stacking-most-jenga-blocks-786260">Canadian man to feature in Guinness World Record 2025 book for stacking most Jenga blocks</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Christmas 2024: Quotes to share</strong></h2>

<p>“I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.” – Charles Dickens</p>

<p>“Our hearts grow tender with childhood memories and love of kindred, and we are better throughout the year for having, in spirit, become a child again at Christmastime.” – Laura Ingalls Wilder</p>

<p>“My idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others. Come to think of it, why do we have to wait for Christmas to do that?” – Bob Hope</p>

<p>“Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful. ” – Norman Vincent Peale</p>

<p>“Christmas, children, is not a date. It is a state of mind. ” – Mary Ellen Chase</p>

<p>“Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.” – Charles M. Schulz</p>


Christmas is almost here, a season to spread joy, love and celebration across the world. Celebrated on December 25, this holiday brings together families, friends and loved ones to cherish the moments, exchange gifts and share feasts.

Christmas is almost here, a season to spread joy, love and celebration across the world. Celebrated on December 25, this holiday brings together families, friends and loved ones to cherish the moments, exchange gifts and share feasts. According to the New Testament, Christmas marks the birthday of Lord Jesus Christ, who was born to Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem. Christ is considered the messiah and saviour of mankind according to the prophecies. Spread the Christmas spirit with your loved ones with these heartfelt messages, greetings and quotes in your wishes. Also read | 90-year-old Cheng Chen with Parkinson's lifts 35 kg in heartwarming senior weightlifting contest Christmas 2024: Wishes and messages “May the magic of Christmas bring you endless happiness and joy. Have a wonderful holiday season!” “Wishing you a holiday season full of warmth, joy, and magical memories.” “Sending you Christmas cheer wrapped in warmth and love. May your holidays be as beautiful as you are!” “Merry Christmas and happy New Year! May the holiday season offer you calmness, and the new year bring you wonderful business adventures.” “May this festive season bring happiness and success to you and your family.” “May this Christmas bring you closer to those you hold dear and shower you with happiness and success.” Also read | Canadian man to feature in Guinness World Record 2025 book for stacking most Jenga blocks Christmas 2024: Quotes to share “I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.” – Charles Dickens “Our hearts grow tender with childhood memories and love of kindred, and we are better throughout the year for having, in spirit, become a child again at Christmastime.” – Laura Ingalls Wilder “My idea of Christmas, whether old-fashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others. Come to think of it, why do we have to wait for Christmas to do that?” – Bob Hope “Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful. ” – Norman Vincent Peale “Christmas, children, is not a date. It is a state of mind. ” – Mary Ellen Chase “Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.” – Charles M. Schulz

Its the Christmas season and as the world eagerly awaits gifts and presents... Santa Claus has departed from his home in the arctic circle...

From Dubai's enchanting Winter Fest to Bangkok's festive cheer with Butterbeer and Guatemala City's heartwarming Santa tradition, Christmas spirit is soaring around the globe. In Syria, the Christmas season takes on a special meaning this year as Damascus celebrates with joy and hope after Bashar al-Assad's ouster. Watch in for more details!



Christmas 2024 | Winter Wonderland: Santa & Train Rides At Al Barari Fest

From Dubai's enchanting Winter Fest to Bangkok's festive cheer with Butterbeer and Guatemala City's heartwarming Santa tradition, Christmas spirit is soaring around the globe. In Syria, the Christmas season takes on a special meaning this year as Damascus celebrates with joy and hope after Bashar al-Assad's ouster. Watch in for more details!

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