Christmas Delicacies

 By Kareem Olajumoke Khadijah

Christmas is one of the most anticipated celebrations in the entire galaxy. It lasts only a few days but requires eleven months and a few weeks of preparation. This celebration, which has existed from generation to generation, brings kids and adults a lot of nostalgic feelings, most of which are positive and sometimes negative; this depends on their past experiences and how they choose to live in the moment.

Regarding the children, I believe the most interesting thing about Christmas is the different and special delicacies made available. They visit different neighbouring houses to be entertained with food. They go in teams but fight each other for equality in sharing the meat.

These delicacies are usually rich and of good quality because people spend a lot to get a perfect and delicious result, from Chicken, Turkey, Jollof and fried rice with enough of their ingredients. During Christmas, there is a competition of who knows how best to cook.

According to Charles Dickins's novel A Christmas Carol, “food is important because it stands for the overall social and economic situation of the different characters”. Food symbolises general well-being and, the generosity people extend to each other.

People cook and distribute food to the neighbourhood; this act, even though it can be seen as a little act of sharing, is grand and acknowledges how we all care for one another and are ready to enjoy the beautiful moment together.

These delicacies mean more than just a mere meal.

While some love to have homemade foods others might not fancy making their own delicacies, so they take the fun to eateries or restaurants, ordering according to their preferred meals and favourite drinks. This is popularly found in Chicken Republic and KFCs during the festive periods. 

The University students also look forward to having these special meals with their families hoping the school gives a few days off so they can go to their various homes to eat and celebrate with family; however, if they do not give a break, some students will still go anyway.

When the federal government announce a public holiday, there will be students who will stay behind, either because their destination is quite far and not worth the stress or the transport expenses, or they don't fancy going home for celebrations. So, their celebration takes place on the University campus in their rooms or the University cafeterias.