Like all of us, Peruvians love Christmas.  Preparations for the holidays are similar to those in America.  Lights, decorations and people shopping create a festive atmosphere.  Because this is such a religious society there are nativity scenes in almost every business and public square.

We spent Christmas in Arequipa, Peru.  Colonial cities are situated around a public square with the main city church. The public square, Plaza de Armas, was all dressed up for Christmas.

Around town we saw many other types of nativity scenes.  Some were very large and others were small table top models but they all helped us enjoy the Christmas spirit.

On Christmas Day, costumed revelers paraded all around the town.

Other than missing family and friends, we enjoyed Christmas as much as the locals.