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In every European mainland country in which I have resided, Christmas is celebrated on Christmas Eve evening. Christmas day is for getting over the appalling hangover acquired the night before and in France at least, Boxing Day is not a holiday, it's back to work day!
Gifts, on the other hand, are exchanged on the feast of St Nicolas which falls on 6th December, in many countries including Luxembourg, where I currently reside.
Christmas is very, VERY much a family thing and you will not find a bar, night club or restaurant open on Christmas Eve, in many countries.
Supermarkets and shops are open all day Christmas Eve but close at around 16:00 or 17:00 so that staff can get home in time for the massive piss-up!
