AN ANALYSIS OF CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS IN KUPANG, NTT:TRADITIONS AND MEANINGS

Abstract

This study aims to reveal the tradition and meaning in Christmas celebrations in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), with an ethnographic approach. Christmas in Kupang is not only celebrated as a religious event, but also as an important moment that reflects the fusion of Christian teachings and local culture. In this study, the authors used participatory observation methods and in-depth interviews to identify the cultural elements involved in Christmas celebrations, as well as the social and cultural meanings contained within them. The findings of the study show that Christmas celebrations in Kupang not only include religious rituals, but are also complemented by local cultural symbols, such as traditional dances, traditional songs, and special foods that create an interaction between religion and culture. Christmas celebrations in Kupang reflect the social identity of its people who value cultural and religious diversity in their daily lives.