Animalia brings its American influence to its various colonies, but it's always respective of the native cultures. For instance, Christmas tends to be treated as a nonsecular holiday that doesn't involve Christianity and focuses more on the spirit of giving. This is particular true in countries where other religions' holidays take precedence in December.
In New Zerzura, where Islamism is dominant, there are currently no Muslim holidays at this time of year. And with an influx of Israelis and Palestinians seeking refuge while conflict rages back home, things were a little bit tense. No one was being turned away, but all the officials were trying to make sure that nobody tried to start any fights. And since a few families were going to be celebrating Hanukah away from home, it was decided a small Hanukah festival would be held. Gentiles were allowed to partake, even if they didn't partake in the prayers.
"Jewish prayers must be pretty hard to say when you have a chest cold," commented Xochi.
"I wouldn't want to be standing in front of a rabbi if he were feeling particularly phlegmy," said Abbas in a light joking manner. He didn't have much of a problem with the Hebrew people. After all, his wife was originally a normal dog and she retained the Christianity she had picked up from her former owner.
"Still, you gotta love how many fried foods they have," said Xochi, gnoshing on another latke, "It's only a shame they don't have any pork here."
"Xochi, we've been over this," said Abbas, "Pork is neither kosher nor halal."
"Abbas, as much as I love you, it would take a great deal more to make me give up bacon," said Xochi, grabbing a doughnut.
"Shouldn't you slow down?" asked Abbas.
"I do need to keep my strength up," said Xochi.
"I know," said Abbas, rubbing his wife's belly, which was showing a little roundness. They had discuss when would be a good time to have their pups. Xochi preferred them to be born after Ramadan, so they started making efforts after Mawlid. As near as Xochi could figure, she'll probably be due sometime in the middle of April. That ought to be enough past Ramadan in general, but it was hard to tell with the Islamic moon calendar. She just hoped her pups will be born into a world with at least a little less strife.
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On Heiya Island, Christmas was celebrated by a few inhabitants, most notably Nate was giving his daughter her first Christmas experience. But Dongzhi was celebrated far more widely. Though there is far less religious ceremony involved, mainly families coming together to eat a banquet. And in one special case, future family came together.
Tuxing was surprised and delighted that Lenard and Mikey decided to spend winter break on Heiya Island. Now that Lenard was her betrothed, it definitely felt more like a family affair to have them here. Lenard and Mikey followed the Dongzhi tradition very well, though Mikey got a bit too enthusiastic at the banquet and overate quite a bit. As such, Mikey went to bed early to sleep it off. The adults had plenty to talk about. There were, of course, wedding plans for the tigers in the summer. There was also discussion of this year's Chinese Zodiac competition. There was also some playful ribbing teasing among Tuxing's remaining three sisters of which of them will likely be using the upcoming Leap Day to propose their respective boyfriends.