Venezuelans are characterized for overcoming adversity with a smile on their face. Hence, from the first days of November, they begin preparing themselves to bring some Christmas warmth to their families.

Even though, this year has been filled with many challenges for Venezuela, spreading cheer to children is the most important part of the season. Welcoming Baby Jesus at midnight on December 25th and handing out presents is the most awaited moment, especially for them.

The family values of unity, love, and happiness are especially highlighted during the Christmas season. Everyone gathers at home to cook the traditional hallacas, while listening to gaitas (traditional music from the Zulia state typically played during Christmas), and Christmas carols as well as playing Christmas Novena games. The prior is all the sweeter by the flavor of ponche de crema or "some cold ones" (beer) being the favorite seasonal drinks. Additionally, children run around the house and play while the rest carry out different roles such as: making hallaca dough, assembling the hallacas, tying them, and finally cooking them.

The new era of social networks is inevitable, since "posting" the moment you taste "the first hallaca of the year", has become part of the tradition.

The forthcoming days are for meeting up with friends and planning gatherings, the perfect occasion to bring your own food and even in some cases gift exchange, Secret Santa or even the well-known White Elephant Gift Exchange.

On December 31st, the family reunites for dinner with some fun evening rituals to ring in the new year such as: eating 12 grapes and wishing on each one at midnight on January 1st; using yellow underwear for good luck; eating a plate of lentils for wealth; standing on a chair to find love; standing outside the front door of your house with a suitcase and passport to attract trips among other traditions held by each family.

In Venezuela, Christmas ends with a regional Andean celebration called "The Standing of Baby Jesus" (Paradura del Niño in Spanish), in which people assemble a representation of Baby Jesus and pray a rosary on February 2nd in Venezuelan houses.

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