In a festive twist, Santa Claus has traded his traditional sleigh for a jet ski to deliver presents across Brazil, adapting to the country’s tropical climate and adding some extra fun to Christmas celebrations.

Santa Swaps Sleigh For Jet Ski To Deliver Presents in Brazil's Rio De Janeiro

York Minster hosts the annual Scandinavian Sankta Lucia service. This event offers a unique way to embrace the Christmas spirit in northern England. Watch for more details!

UK: York Minister Hosts Annual Skandinavian Sancta Lucia Service

Damascus residents gathered for a historic Sunday mass marking the first since the fall of Bashar Al-Assad's regime. The mass was a significant milestone for Syrian Christians, marking a new era of freedom and worship as the country begins to heal and rebuild. The community remains hopeful for a brighter future. Watch in for more details!

Christians Rejoice In Liberated Syria: First Sunday Mass In Post-Assad Syria

Germany’s underground holiday market offers a truly unique experience, set inside the walls of a historic mine shaft. This enchanting market brings festive cheer to a surprising location, where visitors can shop for holiday treasures, enjoy seasonal treats, and take in the captivating atmosphere of the subterranean setting. With twinkling lights, charming stalls, and the cozy warmth of the holidays, this underground market combines the magic of Christmas with a sense of adventure and history, making it a must-see destination for those looking for something different this season.

Germany's Magical Underground Market: A Holiday Wonderland Inside an Old Mine Shaft

Germany’s underground holiday market offers a truly unique experience, set inside the walls of a historic mine shaft. This enchanting market brings festive cheer to a surprising location, where visitors can shop for holiday treasures, enjoy seasonal treats, and take in the captivating atmosphere of the subterranean setting. With twinkling lights, charming stalls, and the cozy warmth of the holidays, this underground market combines the magic of Christmas with a sense of adventure and history, making it a must-see destination for those looking for something different this season.



Households in the United Kingdom are hesitant to spend much on big-ticket purchases in the run-up to Christmas. This is according to a study which cited a broadly weak UK economic outlook as the reason.

Research group GFK's mood barometer did rise, but it ended barely above 2024's average. Consumers were somewhat more upbeat about their own financial situations.

However, they remained pessimistic about the economy as a whole and were unwilling to make any large Christmas purchases.

Neil Bellamy, consumer insights director at GFK, said, and I quote, "In December, consumers adopted the holding pattern we've seen for much of 2024."

Bellamy added, "It's the continuing uncharitable view on the UK's general economic situation that's suppressing consumer confidence."

The data will be an additional setback for businesses.

Retailers and hospitality venues are already preparing for tough trade during their most important time of the year.

Consumers escaped a significant portion of the 40 billion pounds or 50.8 billion dollars in tax increases proposed by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in her budget on October 30.

However, their mood is being dampened by a deteriorating jobs market, increased energy prices, and rising mortgage payments.

(With inputs from the agencies)

Households in the United Kingdom are hesitant to spend much on big-ticket purchases in the run-up to Christmas. This is according to a study which cited a broadly weak UK economic outlook as the reason.

Households in the United Kingdom are hesitant to spend much on big-ticket purchases in the run-up to Christmas. This is according to a study which cited a broadly weak UK economic outlook as the reason. Research group GFK's mood barometer did rise, but it ended barely above 2024's average. Consumers were somewhat more upbeat about their own financial situations. However, they remained pessimistic about the economy as a whole and were unwilling to make any large Christmas purchases. Neil Bellamy, consumer insights director at GFK, said, and I quote, "In December, consumers adopted the holding pattern we've seen for much of 2024." Bellamy added, "It's the continuing uncharitable view on the UK's general economic situation that's suppressing consumer confidence." The data will be an additional setback for businesses. Retailers and hospitality venues are already preparing for tough trade during their most important time of the year. Consumers escaped a significant portion of the 40 billion pounds or 50.8 billion dollars in tax increases proposed by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in her budget on October 30. However, their mood is being dampened by a deteriorating jobs market, increased energy prices, and rising mortgage payments. (With inputs from the agencies)

UK consumers set to refrain from big Christmas buys, survey says

New Delhi
Households in the United Kingdom are hesitant to spend much on big-ticket purchases in the run-up to Christmas. This is according to a study which cited a broadly weak UK economic outlook as the reason.
Research group GFK's mood barometer did rise, but it ended barely above 2024's average. Consumers were somewhat more upbeat about their own financial situations.
However, they remained pessimistic about the economy as a whole and were unwilling to make any large Christmas purchases.
Neil Bellamy, consumer insights director at GFK, said, and I quote, "In December, consumers adopted the holding pattern we've seen for much of 2024."
Bellamy added, "It's the continuing uncharitable view on the UK's general economic situation that's suppressing consumer confidence."
The data will be an additional setback for businesses.
Retailers and hospitality venues are already preparing for tough trade during their most important time of the year.
Consumers escaped a significant portion of the 40 billion pounds or 50.8 billion dollars in tax increases proposed by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in her budget on October 30.
However, their mood is being dampened by a deteriorating jobs market, increased energy prices, and rising mortgage payments.
(With inputs from the agencies)

Households in the United Kingdom are hesitant to spend much on big-ticket purchases in the run-up to Christmas. This is according to a study which cited a broadly weak UK economic outlook as the reason.



New Delhi Households in the United Kingdom are hesitant to spend much on big-ticket purchases in the run-up to Christmas. This is according to a study which cited a broadly weak UK economic outlook as the reason. Research group GFK's mood barometer did rise, but it ended barely above 2024's average. Consumers were somewhat more upbeat about their own financial situations. However, they remained pessimistic about the economy as a whole and were unwilling to make any large Christmas purchases. Neil Bellamy, consumer insights director at GFK, said, and I quote, "In December, consumers adopted the holding pattern we've seen for much of 2024." Bellamy added, "It's the continuing uncharitable view on the UK's general economic situation that's suppressing consumer confidence." The data will be an additional setback for businesses. Retailers and hospitality venues are already preparing for tough trade during their most important time of the year. Consumers escaped a significant portion of the 40 billion pounds or 50.8 billion dollars in tax increases proposed by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in her budget on October 30. However, their mood is being dampened by a deteriorating jobs market, increased energy prices, and rising mortgage payments. (With inputs from the agencies)

In a festive display of holiday cheer, London marked the 10th edition of its annual 'Santa Cruise,' with hundreds of Santas parading down Pall Mall. The event brought together participants dressed in Santa Claus outfits to spread joy and raise funds for charity. The lively procession was a highlight of the city's Christmas celebrations, attracting both locals and tourists alike. The Santa Cruise is now a beloved tradition, contributing to London's vibrant holiday atmosphere.

London Celebrates 10th Annual 'Santa Cruise' with Army of Santas Marching Down Pall Mall

In a festive display of holiday cheer, London marked the 10th edition of its annual 'Santa Cruise,' with hundreds of Santas parading down Pall Mall. The event brought together participants dressed in Santa Claus outfits to spread joy and raise funds for charity. The lively procession was a highlight of the city's Christmas celebrations, attracting both locals and tourists alike. The Santa Cruise is now a beloved tradition, contributing to London's vibrant holiday atmosphere.





Miami is sparkling with holiday cheer as the city unveils its dazzling light displays and festive decorations. The annual tradition attracts locals and tourists alike, celebrating the joy and warmth of the season.

Miami Gleams With Holiday Spirit As The City Sparkles For The Festive Season

Pula, a historic Croatian city, showcases a breathtaking Christmas celebration that combines its rich cultural heritage with festive cheer. With stunning ice sculptures, traditional Christmas markets, and spectacular light displays, Pula’s holiday season draws visitors into a magical atmosphere, offering a unique blend of history and modern Christmas festivities.

History on Ice: Pula’s Spectacular Christmas Celebration Blends Tradition, Culture, and Festive Joy

Around the world, preparations are in full swing for Christmas. Here's how countries are getting ready for the holiday season. Watch in for more details!

Christmas 2024: Christmas Cheer In Copenhagen, New York, Chicago

The City of London dazzles with Christmas lights.

Holiday cheer fills streets of New York

Around the world, preparations are in full swing for Christmas. Here's how countries are getting ready for the holiday season. It's that time of the year, of course, when the Santa Claus village, perched on the edge of the Arctic Circle, is all dolled up to welcome tourists from around the globe, and children's beloved Santa Claus and elves are making their final preparations for Christmas Eve. Watch in for more details!

Christmas 2024: Holiday Glitter Charms Visitors In UK, Chicago

Merry 'Swiftmas': Taylor Swift- themed Christmas house. Watch in for details!

Taylor Swift-inspired Christmas House Back For Holiday Season | World News | WION Newspoint

United States President-elect Donald Trump is once again gaining popularity among an army of clay figurines who have their pants and are shown defecating.&nbsp;

The figurines have been created by Spanish craftsmen as part of a tradition which is popular in the north-eastern Catalonia region of the country.

<h2>Why are 'pooper' figurines made in Spain?</h2>

Originally, the "caganer" (pooper) figures were designed as comical shepherds who remain hidden from visitors, however, the tradition has expanded and started including celebrities and world leaders who have enjoyed popularity.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-fbi-director-pick-kash-patel-targetted-by-iranian-hacking-attack-781413">Trump's FBI director pick Kash Patel targetted by Iranian hacking attack</a>

Since the 18th century, the figurines have been sold in Catalonia around Christmas. The people place them in nativity scenes with the hope that they will bring a rich harvest and good luck.

The original caganer, which if translated from Catalan means “the fertiliser”, was the figurine of a man who wore a red and black hat along with a peasant costume and was shown performing his biological functions.

The people believed that his fertile deposits when will be mixed with the soil, would result in a rich harvest.

CEO of online store Caganer.com Sergi Alos said that the surge in sales of United States presidential candidates pooping is a reflection of the outcome of the presidential elections in the country.&nbsp;

"Trump has been massive, overwhelming, just like in the elections," Alos said.

Watch:&nbsp;Lame Duck Biden Gives Orders As Real Power Shifts To Trump

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lame-duck-biden-gives-orders-as-real-power-shifts-to-trump-781582/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In 2016, Trump figurines became popular when he won the first presidential elections.&nbsp;

In 2005, a public uproar was provoked by the Barcelona city council after a nativity scene was commissioned which did not include one of the caganers.&nbsp;

The local paper received a letter which read, “A nativity scene without a caganer is not a nativity scene.”

Along with Trump, the figurines were made of French President Emmanuel Macron, far-right leader Marine Le Pen, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, Russia's Vladimir Putin, Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro and Argentina's Javier Milei.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President-elect Donald Trump is once again gaining popularity among an army of clay figurines who have their pants and are shown defecating. The figurines have been created by Spanish craftsmen as part of a tradition which is popular in the north-eastern Catalonia region of the country.

United States President-elect Donald Trump is once again gaining popularity among an army of clay figurines who have their pants and are shown defecating. The figurines have been created by Spanish craftsmen as part of a tradition which is popular in the north-eastern Catalonia region of the country. Why are 'pooper' figurines made in Spain? Originally, the "caganer" (pooper) figures were designed as comical shepherds who remain hidden from visitors, however, the tradition has expanded and started including celebrities and world leaders who have enjoyed popularity. Also Read: Trump's FBI director pick Kash Patel targetted by Iranian hacking attack Since the 18th century, the figurines have been sold in Catalonia around Christmas. The people place them in nativity scenes with the hope that they will bring a rich harvest and good luck. The original caganer, which if translated from Catalan means “the fertiliser”, was the figurine of a man who wore a red and black hat along with a peasant costume and was shown performing his biological functions. The people believed that his fertile deposits when will be mixed with the soil, would result in a rich harvest. CEO of online store Caganer.com Sergi Alos said that the surge in sales of United States presidential candidates pooping is a reflection of the outcome of the presidential elections in the country. "Trump has been massive, overwhelming, just like in the elections," Alos said. Watch: Lame Duck Biden Gives Orders As Real Power Shifts To Trump In 2016, Trump figurines became popular when he won the first presidential elections. In 2005, a public uproar was provoked by the Barcelona city council after a nativity scene was commissioned which did not include one of the caganers. The local paper received a letter which read, “A nativity scene without a caganer is not a nativity scene.” Along with Trump, the figurines were made of French President Emmanuel Macron, far-right leader Marine Le Pen, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, Russia's Vladimir Putin, Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro and Argentina's Javier Milei. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump's Christmas-themed 'pooper' figurine sees surge in demand in Spain

Paris transforms into a festive wonderland during Christmas, offering a mix of culinary delights, age-old traditions, and streets adorned with glittering lights. Watch this report for more details!

Paris: Crowds Gather At Paris' Champs-Elysees For Christmas Lights Display  | World News | WION

Paris: City of Love All Decked-Up For Christmas

In the heart of Budapest the Advent Basilica Christmas Market has transformed St. Stephen's square into Winter wonderland of flavors, traditions and festive Joy. With over 200 treasures and artisanal crafts to discover the celebration of Hungarian Heritage that warms both heart and soul. Watch in for more details!

Hungary | Experience The Magic Of Christmas At Advent: A Festive Fusion Of Taste & Tradition

The holiday season is soon going to be upon us and one must have the perfect romantic-comedy holiday movie to watch during this special season of the year. This year, a Holiday movie will have a Taylor Swift twist to it. Swift and NFL player Travis Kelce seem to have inspired a new Lifetime Christmas movie.&nbsp; 
 
The film is titled Christmas in the Spotlight, the film will be part of the network's annual holiday programming, It's a Wonderful Lifetime, and will release on November 23. 
 
The film's first look was unveiled on social media on Tuesday (Oct 15).&nbsp;

<h2>About Christmas in the Spotlight</h2>

The film follows Bowyn, a pop star portrayed by Jessica Lord, who meets Drew, a professional football player played by Laith Wallschleger, backstage at one of her concerts. The two start a relationship after Drew publicly declares his love for her. Their growing feelings face challenges from the media, paparazzi, and their families.&nbsp; 
 
The film deals with the pressures that their relationship goes through due to their public image. Adding a festive twist, the couple must decide by Christmas whether their love will endure.

<img alt="g" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0cc48028-0cdd-4f11-bacc-8a58de1dfe5b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/GZ80WCEb0AAm-ZQ.jpg" />

In the first look unveiled on Tuesday, Drew (Laith Wallschleger) and Bowyn (Jessica Lord) are seen embracing each other on the red carpet, dressed in festive colours. Christmas trees and decorations adorn the background.&nbsp; 
 
The film also features TV host Jeannie Mai as Bowyn's manager and TikTok influencer Haley Kalil as Drew's sister-in-law.

While there is no official confirmation that the film is based on the Swift-Kelce romance, the similarities are striking and hard to miss.&nbsp; 
 
Travis attended one of Taylor's concerts and expressed his interest via his podcast, leading to their romantic involvement. Taylor was later seen supporting Travis at several Kansas City &nbsp;Chiefs games.&nbsp; 
 
Hallmark, Lifetime's rival, will also delve into NFL romance with Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story, featuring Kansas City Chiefs branding. Christmas in the Spotlight is penned by Eirene Tran Donohue and directed by Michelle Ouellet.

The holiday season is soon going to be upon us and one must have the perfect romantic-comedy holiday movie to watch during this special season of the year. This year, a Holiday movie will have a Taylor Swift twist to it.

The holiday season is soon going to be upon us and one must have the perfect romantic-comedy holiday movie to watch during this special season of the year. This year, a Holiday movie will have a Taylor Swift twist to it. Swift and NFL player Travis Kelce seem to have inspired a new Lifetime Christmas movie. The film is titled Christmas in the Spotlight, the film will be part of the network's annual holiday programming, It's a Wonderful Lifetime, and will release on November 23. The film's first look was unveiled on social media on Tuesday (Oct 15). About Christmas in the Spotlight The film follows Bowyn, a pop star portrayed by Jessica Lord, who meets Drew, a professional football player played by Laith Wallschleger, backstage at one of her concerts. The two start a relationship after Drew publicly declares his love for her. Their growing feelings face challenges from the media, paparazzi, and their families. The film deals with the pressures that their relationship goes through due to their public image. Adding a festive twist, the couple must decide by Christmas whether their love will endure. In the first look unveiled on Tuesday, Drew (Laith Wallschleger) and Bowyn (Jessica Lord) are seen embracing each other on the red carpet, dressed in festive colours. Christmas trees and decorations adorn the background. The film also features TV host Jeannie Mai as Bowyn's manager and TikTok influencer Haley Kalil as Drew's sister-in-law. While there is no official confirmation that the film is based on the Swift-Kelce romance, the similarities are striking and hard to miss. Travis attended one of Taylor's concerts and expressed his interest via his podcast, leading to their romantic involvement. Taylor was later seen supporting Travis at several Kansas City Chiefs games. Hallmark, Lifetime's rival, will also delve into NFL romance with Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story, featuring Kansas City Chiefs branding. Christmas in the Spotlight is penned by Eirene Tran Donohue and directed by Michelle Ouellet.

Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce romance inspires holiday movies this Christmas

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro announced an early Christmas holiday on 1 October amid a post-election crisis following the 28 July presidential election, in which he was re-elected but which the opposition denounced as a fraud.

Venezuela: Maduro declares early Christmas amid post-election crisis

At least 40 people were killed and many others wounded by gunmen on motorbikes in an attack on a mining village in Central Nigeria on the 20th of May. This is the latest violent episode to hit the region deeply troubled by resource disputes and intercommunal strife. The late Monday attack took place in the Plateau state where clashes between nomadic herders and pastoral farmers are rife. Also, last December, nearly 200 people had been killed in Plateau's Bokkos and Barkin Ladi districts over several days of violence during the Christmas period.

Nigeria plagued with security challenges on multiple front

Concerns arose among fans when Melania Trump was noticeably absent from the family's 2023 Christmas photo. The image featured Donald Trump, his children, and their partners posing in front of a grand tree in a spacious room, all elegantly dressed in suits and formal attire. The absence of the former First Lady prompted speculation.

<h2>Why was Melania Trump&nbsp;absent?</h2>

Sources now reveal that Melania Trump&nbsp;was absent as she was taking care of&nbsp;her ailing mother during the holiday season. A spokesperson mentioned to Fox News Digital that Melania,&nbsp;spent Christmas with her mother, Amalija Knavs, who is reportedly unwell and receiving treatment.&nbsp;The family Christmas photo was taken during a gathering at the Mar-a-Lago estate.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-donald-trump-claims-it-was-him-that-made-home-alone-2-such-a-hit-674219">Also read |&nbsp;Donald Trump claims it was his cameo that made 'Home Alone 2' such a hit</a>

Recent reports had suggested that Melania was planning to increase her public appearances in anticipation of Donald Trump's potential 2024 election campaign.

Insiders at Mar-a-Lago, as cited by Fox News Digital mentioned&nbsp;an agreement between Melania and Trump to engage in more top-tier diplomatic appearances in the coming year.

Reports also suggest that Melania has also been actively involved in assisting her son, Barron Trump, in the college search process.

Also watch |&nbsp;More trouble for Trump Presidential bid; Ghosts of Capitol Hill riots haunt Trump

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/more-trouble-for-trump-presidential-bid-ghosts-of-capitol-hill-riots-haunt-trump-674666/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>Maine blocks Trump from presidential primary ballot</h2>

Meanwhile, in a setback to former President Donald Trump, the state of Maine&nbsp;decided to exclude him from the upcoming US presidential primary election, following a similar move by Colorado. Trump is disqualified over alleged involvement in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, with Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows linking him to inciting insurrection.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Concerns arose among fans when Melania Trump was noticeably absent from the family's 2023 Christmas photo. The image featured Donald Trump, his children, and their partners posing in front of a grand tree in a spacious room, all elegantly dressed in suits and formal attire.

Concerns arose among fans when Melania Trump was noticeably absent from the family's 2023 Christmas photo. The image featured Donald Trump, his children, and their partners posing in front of a grand tree in a spacious room, all elegantly dressed in suits and formal attire. The absence of the former First Lady prompted speculation. Why was Melania Trump absent? Sources now reveal that Melania Trump was absent as she was taking care of her ailing mother during the holiday season. A spokesperson mentioned to Fox News Digital that Melania, spent Christmas with her mother, Amalija Knavs, who is reportedly unwell and receiving treatment. The family Christmas photo was taken during a gathering at the Mar-a-Lago estate. Also read | Donald Trump claims it was his cameo that made 'Home Alone 2' such a hit Recent reports had suggested that Melania was planning to increase her public appearances in anticipation of Donald Trump's potential 2024 election campaign. Insiders at Mar-a-Lago, as cited by Fox News Digital mentioned an agreement between Melania and Trump to engage in more top-tier diplomatic appearances in the coming year. Reports also suggest that Melania has also been actively involved in assisting her son, Barron Trump, in the college search process. Also watch | More trouble for Trump Presidential bid; Ghosts of Capitol Hill riots haunt Trump Maine blocks Trump from presidential primary ballot Meanwhile, in a setback to former President Donald Trump, the state of Maine decided to exclude him from the upcoming US presidential primary election, following a similar move by Colorado. Trump is disqualified over alleged involvement in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, with Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows linking him to inciting insurrection. (With inputs from agencies)

Melania Trump missing from Donald Trump's Christmas family photo. Know why

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