The Chinese New Year marks the start of a new year in the Chinese Lunar calendar and is celebrated for 15 days. On the New Year's eve, family ties are reaffirmed over a special reunion dinner. Younger members of the family will visit the elders and friends on the first day. Lion dance performances at homes and offices are believed to drive away evil and bring fortune. Deepavali or the Festival of Lights, is a Hindu festival commemorating the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
Oil lamps are lit and garland decorations are placed in every home and temple.
The elders are revered, younger family members are anointed with oil and gifts are exchanged between relatives. Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. The festivities are carried through to the new year as it coincides with the new year celebrations. Gifts are exchanged and Christmas trees adorned many homes and shops. Santa Claus, the mythical gift giver, appears in shopping centres and parties amidst the carolling and frantic buying of Christmas gifts.