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Christmas
Lebanon, 25th December, 2000
Most of the countries of the Arab world have special traditions
related to Christmas. Some of them are in common with those
of the western world but there are some unique differences
as well. For example, for many Christians, Christmas is preceded
by a fasting period of 40 days. Another tradition is the ringing
of huge church bells on Christmas Eve, to announce the birth
of Christ.
Special dances called Dabkeh are performed during the Christmas
season. Young men and women hold hands in semi-circles dancing
together to special music. The dances are made up of artistic
footwork that harmonizes with the sound of the music. The
dancers wear special colorful clothes and head covers or "tambourines."
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