In the provincial capital Christmas services will be held in some 250 city churches where priests will throw light on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

Two major gatherings will be held: Cathederal-The Mall and Saint Anthony's-Lawrence Road.

Christmas trees and cribs have been decorated in almost all houses of the community. Administrations of respective city churches have set up special fairs at the churches where Christian families would enjoy the festive event.

Christmas preparations will reach their climax when chiming bells, and hymns at churches at the midnight of Dec 24 pronounce, "Joy to the world, the Christ is born". Christmas celebrations start with the midnight mass at churches illuminated and decorated with Christmas trees and bells.

According to tradition, this is the time to seek forgiveness from God Almighty and pray for your family and the well being of the motherland. The day starts with jingling of bells, glittering Christmas trees, and carol songs played on full from early morning of December 25.

Christmas in Pakistan is an event of family re-union where dear and near ones gather at homes of the elders to celebrate occasion.

"Visiting your relatives and getting served rich food at every home is so delightful. You feel like over eating most of the time!” said Shahid Mehraj, Very Revd Dean of Lahore Catheral.

For children, the day means a time for collecting gifts, tastefully wrapped and placed under the Christmas trees at the homes of all aunts and uncles.

Meanwhile, strict security arrangements have been made to ensure peace in the city during Christmas event.