Christmas Day
A season of giving, gratitude, and gathering — however you choose to celebrate.
About
Christmas on December 25 is one of the most widely observed cultural and religious holidays in the world, marking the birth of Jesus Christ for Christians, while functioning as a secular celebration of family, generosity, and midwinter festivity for billions more. Traditions vary enormously by country — from elaborate church services and midnight masses to gift-giving, feasting, carol singing, and decorating. Christmas has become genuinely global, celebrated in cultures far from its Christian origins.
History
The exact birth date of Jesus is not recorded in the Bible. December 25 was established as the feast of Christmas by the early church in the 4th century, possibly chosen to coincide with Roman winter solstice festivals. Christmas traditions evolved over centuries — the Christmas tree in Germany, Santa Claus from Dutch Sinterklaas, carol singing in England — before being globalised through commerce, media, and migration.
Where It's Observed
Cultural Context
US United States
Christmas is America's largest retail event, with consumer spending exceeding $900 billion. Family traditions — decorating trees, exchanging gifts, watching classic films, and holiday meals — define the season. The 'War on Christmas' debate reflects deeper cultural tensions in a pluralistic society.
KR South Korea
Christmas is a public holiday in South Korea and observed by both Christians (about 25% of the population) and secular Koreans. It has a distinctly commercial and romantic flavour — couples celebrate, Christmas markets proliferate in cities, and K-pop artists release seasonal albums.
JP Japan
Japan's Christmas, celebrated by a largely non-Christian population, is quintessentially commercial and couple-focused. KFC for Christmas dinner is a uniquely Japanese tradition — an immensely successful 1970s marketing campaign made fried chicken the country's Christmas meal. Illumination events are spectacular.
How to Participate
- 01Give a gift of time — volunteer at a food bank, shelter, or community organisation
- 02Cook a traditional holiday meal and share it with people who might be alone
- 03Donate to a charity in honour of someone you love instead of a material gift
- 04Take time to rest, reflect, and appreciate the people and things you are grateful for
Frequently asked questions
When is Christmas Day?+
Christmas Day is observed annually on December 25. The date is fixed each year — December 25 — and does not shift based on the lunar calendar or weekday.
What is Christmas Day?+
Christmas on December 25 is one of the most widely observed cultural and religious holidays in the world, marking the birth of Jesus Christ for Christians, while functioning as a secular celebration of family, generosity, and midwinter festivity for billions more. Traditions vary enormously by count…
Is Christmas Day a public holiday?+
Christmas Day is an international observance or awareness day, not a public holiday in most countries. It does not typically result in days off work or school closures, though some countries and organisations hold official events.
How can I participate in Christmas Day?+
Give a gift of time — volunteer at a food bank, shelter, or community organisation Cook a traditional holiday meal and share it with people who might be alone Donate to a charity in honour of someone you love instead of a material gift These are some of the most accessible ways to engage with the day's purpose.
Which countries observe Christmas Day?+
Global — over 160 countries observe Christmas in some form.
Mark the date
Download a free printable calendar for 2026 and never miss Christmas Day.