Christmas Eve mass is one of my favorite things. I was unable to attend this year, unfortunately!
When I was growing up, we'd go in at 11:30 pm and sing carols with a packed church for 30 minutes. The singing was very enthusiastic and beautiful, with the lights down very low and decorations everywhere. Then the priests would come in by candlelight, a very long procession. Everyone was bursting with anticipation for midnight.
I haven't attended one locally yet, but I hope to next year. The joy of Christmas is absolutely palpable at a Christmas Eve mass!
bebu