In Venezuela, Christmas is celebrated with much joy and enthusiasm. The celebrations start on the evening of December 24th, when families gather together for the Nochebuena feast. The meal is often a large and elaborate affair, with traditional dishes like hallaca, a tamale made with pork, chicken, or beef, and accompanied by a variety of sides like fried plantains, rice, and black beans. The main dessert is usually pan de jamon, a sweet bread filled with ham and raisins.