 This day is the unofficial start of the Christmas season in the country.On this night, people place candles and paper lanterns on windowsills, balconies, porches, sidewalks, streets, parks and squares; in short, everywhere they can be seen, in honor of the Virgin Mary and her Immaculate Conception.On December 8 it is customary for houses to hoist a white flag with the image of the Virgin Mary all day.