Midnight services in churches across the state heralded the advent of birth of Jesus Christ as tourists and locals joined in the festivities with religious fervour, mixed with merriment, exchanging greetings and gifts with friends and relatives.
Governor V Shanmuganathan and Chief Minister Mukul Sangma greeted the people on the occasion, reminding them that Jesus taught the value of love, kindness and compassion.
In his greetings, the Governor said, "I convey my warmest greetings and good wishes to the people of Meghalaya... In the warmth of love of our family and neighbours, let us remember to pray for others who are less fortunate."
Mukul Sangma on the other hand said, "As we celebrate this joyous occasion, let us count the blessings we have received and give thanks for all the good things we enjoy."
"Let us resolve to honour the spirit of Christmas by treating one another with love and compassion and by sharing and caring with an honest heart," he added.
The state capital was decked up for Christmas for the week's celebrations. Both government and private buildings as well as street corners were illuminated and decorated with Christmas trees, banners and festoons.
Special programmes including traditional Christmas carols and colourful processions have rendered the air festive and solemn.
Tourists flocked to this hill state to participate during Christmas celebrations and also to take a taste of the winter season.
All kinds of carol singers took to the streets over the last few days, especially Christmas carols by a group of cyclists last evening was worth mentioning.
A group of over 30 people on mountain bikes went round town riding their bike, singing carols, sharing sweets and enthralling crowds with traditional Christmas songs like 'Jingle Bells', 'Santa Claus Is Coming to Town' and other songs.
The state's biggest market, Iewduh and it's sister hub, Khyndailad area buzzed with people and tourists. Long queues were seen in front of prominent bakeries in the city, selling 'designer' cakes.
Known for attractive illumination during Christmas and New Year, the Garo Hills too is agog with festivity. The entire Tura town was also illuminated.
Unique to its tradition, almost every tree in western Tura town was decked up with lights like Christmas trees.
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