Hanoians take picture with Santa Claus (Photo: dantri.com.vn)

Churches and shops have been decorated with colored lights, Christmas trees and statues. Friends gathered near St. Joseph’s Cathedral in downtown Hanoi to play and take group photos. Nguyen Khanh Linh said:“I think the Christmas atmosphere in Hanoi is exciting. People no matter they are Catholic or not, go to the streets to feel the Christmas atmosphere or party with their relatives and friends. My friends and I come here to take photos to have some Christmas memories.”

Christmas celebrations are prevailing throughout Ho Chi Minh city. Locals and tourists gathered at the Notre Dame Cathedral. Ms. Nguyen Thi My Trang said:“The Christmas decoration this year is very beautiful. Everyone is cheerful, so are my family and I. I wish everyone Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.”