The city and Christian community have bondage of over two centuries as Christian missionaries chose Dharwad as the centre for spreading the religion and taking up educational activities. The educational institutions established by Christian missionaries have played an important role in getting the educational hub' tag.
With Christmas approaching, all the three major churches in Dharwad are decked up for Christmas. The city has over 7,000 Christians of which nearly 70 per cent are Protestants and the rest Catholics. What is unique about Christmas in Dharwad is that the local traditions and culture have great influence on the celebrations, while some Christian families are influenced by their counterparts in the neighbouring Goa.
Akin to Hindus celebrating Deepavali with crackers and sky lamps, Christians also burst crackers and light sky lanterns and more importantly, prepare snacks and sweets like chakkuli, avalakki, karjikai and laadu that are usually prepared during Deepavali. Special programmes will be held for children during children's Christmas.
The Hebich Memorial Church also known as All Saints' Church, is famous for its conventional architecture and brick work. This church was established in the year 1888. The Basel Mission compound where large number of Christian families live has been fully illuminated and decked up with colourful balloons, bells, ribbons, stars, glitter and buntings.
On December 25 , after the special prayer at the Churches, the Bishop and the pastors will deliver the Christmas address. Special discourses will be held on Jesus and Christianity.
The celebration will continue till the arrival of the New Year. From December 26 to 31, the church members would be visiting the houses of the Christians located in the Mission Compound and render carols.
