Thu Dec 25 10:50:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a rewritten news article:

Summary:

The Associated Press captured images of diverse Christmas Eve celebrations around the world. From religious services in Bethlehem, Yangon and Jakarta to charity swims in Northern Ireland, and festive gatherings in Germany, China, Argentina, Ukraine, Israel, Ecuador and London, people celebrated with joy, reverence, and dazzling displays of light.

News Article:

Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.

Christmas Eve Celebrations Span the Globe

By The Associated Press

December 24, 2025 – As the world ushered in Christmas, Associated Press photographers documented a vibrant tapestry of celebrations, traditions, and acts of charity. From Bethlehem to Beijing, communities marked the holiday with unique customs and displays of festive spirit.

In Bethlehem, West Bank, Catholic clergy walked in procession to the Church of the Nativity, traditionally believed to be Jesus’ birthplace. Meanwhile, in Yangon, Myanmar, Christians attended solemn prayer services, and in Jakarta, Indonesia, a stadium filled with worshippers holding electric candles.

The holiday spirit extended beyond religious observances. In Northern Ireland, brave souls plunged into the frigid waters of Belfast Lough for an annual charity swim. In Frankfurt, Germany, revelers gathered in Roemerberg square for the city’s traditional bell ringing, while others drove tractors and motorbikes to the top of the Feldberg mountain.

The holiday season also saw moments of whimsical joy. A “polar bear” mascot took a break from entertaining guests in Beijing. Children played with bubbles at a Christmas dinner for those in need in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Traditional customs also shone brightly, as participants sang Christmas carols in Ukraine, and a meat auction occurred in London.

These images, captured by AP photographers, offer a glimpse into the diverse and heartfelt ways in which people around the world celebrated Christmas Eve, reflecting a season of joy, reverence, and community.

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