Houston Dec 29, 2007: Mangaloreans living in Houston, USA, celebrated Christmas with gaiety and fanfare on the 24th December at the residence of Charles and Florine Pinto.

The children enacted the scene of the birth of Christ. The nativity play was choreographed by Susan Fernandes and music was scored by Annrose Lobo. Everyone joined in the singing of carols in English and Konkani. At the midnight hour everyone sang praises to Baby Jesus and greeted each other.

Santa Claus enacted by Valerian Lobo entertained the gathering distributing gifts to children. Each family then took their turn to get themselves clicked with Santa. Each family had cooked a dish and all joined together to enjoy the Mangalorean style mouth watering food. Kuswar was distributed courtesy Vigil Fernandes and family. Families exchanged gifts with one another.

Various games were conducted for both adults and children. The party went on till the wee hours of the morning singing and dancing to the tunes of popular English, Konkani and Hindi songs.

Carol singing was also held in various houses during the Christmas week.

Also read Christmas Celebrations Around The World - 2007