The facade of Cho Quan Church in Ward 2 of District 5 in the southern city has been decorated with a Christmas tree and a nativity scene.

People flock to the church in order to enjoy the festive spirit.

Colourful lights have been placed on the Church of St. Joan of Arc in Ward 9 of District 5.

Children play on Pham The Hien street in District 8, with the area being home to one of the largest Christian communities in Ho Chi Minh City.

Binh Thai Church in Ward 6 of District 8 is fully decorated with an array of festive lights and symbols.

As the country’s biggest archdiocese, Ho Chi Minh City is home to approximately 700,000 Christians.

This year, the number of local people going to local churches has endured a sharp decline as local authorities urges people to limit large gatherings during the Christmas holiday period as a means of ensuring pandemic prevention measures are enforced.

Residents note that light decorations and nativity scenes serve to celebrate the birth of Christ and to mark the New Year.

Notra-Dame Cathedral is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic landmarks in its downtown area, although the site will not welcome any visitors on Christmas. Instead, Mass will be celebrated behind closed doors at half of its maximum capacity and will only allow parishioners to attend.

Tan Dinh Church in Ward 8 of District 3 limits the number of people going in and out, thereby ensuring the safety of local people.

A local Catholic says that citizens are in the habit of decorating their house to celebrate Christmas, although this year’s festive atmosphere is not as jubilant as it is in previous years.

A family poses for a photo in front of a nativity scene placed at Ky Dong Church.

Captivating ornaments can also be seen throughout the majority of local shopping malls.

No major Christmas party is planned this year due to local people being afraid of the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Source: english.vov.vn/