Merry Christmas already?

Mexico City plans to get the Christmas season rolling on Dec. 4 when Placido Domingo presents an open air concert at the Independence Monument – better known as The Angel – on Reforma Boulevard. Although Domingo was born in Spain, he spent most of his childhood in Mexico City.

The city also plans to erect the world’s tallest Christmas tree. And if it is not the tallest, it certainly will be one of the highest, considering that the metropolis is a mile-and-a-half above sea level (take that, Denver!). Still the tree is sure to be criticized by those who see Mexico adopting Gringo practices in place of Hispanic traditions. Actually, while Mexican tots look forward now to a visit from St. Nicholas, once that jolly old elf has departed, they turn their affections on the Magic Kings, as the Three Wise men are known in these parts. Their gifts are to be found the morning on Jan. 6.

By Jimm Budd