The nine-day festival will showcase art, music, theatre, crafts, and cultural activities, attracting artists and visitors from across the country. PICS/ASHISH RAJE

From solemn midnight masses at historic cathedrals and churches to festive gatherings in city centres, Christians across the world marked Christmas with prayers, rituals and celebrations. These images capture moments from Manila, Antakya, Chartres, Rabat, Vatican City, Bethlehem, and New York as communities came together to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. (PICS/AFP)