Christians in Rawalpindi and Islamabad are set to celebrate Christmas tomorrow, with special night vigil services scheduled for tonight in local churches. The community has completed all preparations for the holiday.
Tonight, shops, commercial centres, and markets in the twin cities will stay open until 1 am for Christmas shopping. Authorities have implemented strong traffic control measures in Saddar Bazaars to manage the expected rush.
For festive entertainment, 45 venues across both cities will offer a range of activities, including toys, dodge cars, mini battery cars, fly rides, computerized indoor games, swings, and rides on horses and camels, as well as lake boating.
Amusement parks will be open from 9 am to 1 am on Christmas Day and the following day.
The district administration and police have crafted a detailed security plan for church safety, deploying police personnel and commandos at key churches along Mall Road, Saddar, and Murree Road. Enhanced security includes walk-through gates with metal detectors and installing CCTV cameras at all church locations.
Churches are adorned with vibrant decorations, lights, and Christmas trees. Special songs will be performed during tonight’s vigil services, and homes within the Christian community will be beautifully lit.
Preparations for Chand Raat shopping are complete, although the high cost of clothing and footwear in major stores has led many middle-class and poorer families to opt for Lunda Bazaar, where prices are up to 50% lower.
The current economic situation, characterized by high inflation, has notably reduced Christmas shopping this year, as reported by Christian families. The government has acknowledged the festive season by granting three holidays to Christian employees.
