By Cam Lucadou-Wells
For the Mohammads, Christmas means a time for family – barbecues in the park and watching fireworks even if there are no exchanges of gifts.
Ismail, his wife Jawahir and his three children, as Afghan Hazaras, more closely observe Eid and Nawruz celebrations during other times of the year.
“We believe that Eid and Nawruz are our Christmas,” Ismail says.
“It is a time for feeling happy with others.”
During the jollities, special cakes are prepared and family members host one another in their homes.
When Ismail first arrived in Sydney in 2012, Christmas – with families flocking towards the beach – was a new experience.
He quickly realised it was a human celebration, a chance to appreciate family and friends.
On Christmas Eve, the family huddle together watching fireworks outside the famous carols concert at Sidney Myer Music Bowl.
The next day, they’ll meet other families for a picnic and barbecue.
His daughter Benazir, 11, said it seemed similar to Eid – which marks the end of the Muslim tradition, Ramadan.
At school, she’s been making Christmas cards for friends and teachers.
She’s not too jealous of school friends getting Christmas presents.
After all, as part of Eid and Nawruz, she’ll receive a new dress and money from her family.
