by Karim, age 8, asks Baba Noel do you bring the same toys and presents as the American Santa Claus?, about the Mediterranean Sea, and why Lebanon celebrates Christmas and Eid
Dear Baba Noel,
My name is Karim and I am 8 years old. I live in Beirut, Lebanon, where we string colored lights along the balconies and my grandmother roasts chestnuts on the stove every single night in December.
First, do you bring the same toys and presents as the American Santa Claus?
Second, a geography question: what sea is right next to Beirut?
Third, a school question about my country: why does Lebanon celebrate both Christmas and Eid?
I left you knafeh, a sweet cheese pastry, and a small glass of orange juice.
Love, Karim, age 8, Beirut, Lebanon, Beirut, Lebanon
From the Desk of Baba Noel
Dear Karim, thank you for the treat, it was wonderful. Now, your questions.
Do you bring the same toys and presents as the American Santa Claus?
I bring whatever a child truly wants and whatever a family can joyfully share, the same spirit as my American colleague, though the specific toys change with every generation and every home.
What sea is right next to Beirut?
Beirut sits right on the Mediterranean Sea, and I always enjoy the view of the coastline lit up at night as the sleigh comes in low over the water. It is one of the prettiest approaches on my whole route.
Why does Lebanon celebrate both Christmas and Eid?
Lebanon is a country with many different religious communities living closely together, including Christians and Muslims, and it officially recognizes eighteen different religious groups. Because of this, Lebanese families celebrate Christmas, Eid, and other holidays throughout the year, often alongside neighbors of different faiths, which I think is a lovely way to practice the same idea Christmas is built on: sharing joy with the people around you.
Sleep well, Karim, and Merry Christmas.
Ho ho ho, Baba Noel
