Christmas Day 2026
The Christian festival celebrating the birth of Jesus, and a cultural holiday enjoyed worldwide with gifts, decorations and family gatherings.
Quick facts
- Date
- December 25
- Day of the week
- Friday in 2026
- Type
- Religious, Celebration
- Observed in
- Global
- Also known as
- Christmas, Xmas, the Nativity
- Observed by
- Christians worldwide; also widely celebrated as a cultural holiday
- Public holiday
- Public holiday in many countries
- Hashtag
- #MerryChristmas
Overview
Christmas Day, on December 25, celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. For Christians it is one of the most important days of the year, marked with church services and nativity scenes. It is also a popular cultural holiday, with decorated trees, lights, gift-giving, carols and festive meals.
Many Orthodox churches that follow the Julian calendar celebrate Christmas on January 7.
History
The Bible does not give a date for Jesus's birth. The earliest record of Christmas being celebrated on December 25 comes from Rome in AD 336. Over the centuries many customs joined the festival: the Christmas tree from Germany, carols, Christmas cards (first sold in England in 1843), and Santa Claus, based on Saint Nicholas, a fourth-century bishop known for his generosity.
- 336The earliest recorded celebration of Christmas on December 25, in Rome.
- 1843The first commercial Christmas cards are sold in England; Dickens publishes A Christmas Carol.
- 1914The Christmas truce takes place along parts of the Western Front.
How to celebrate
Decorate together
Trim the tree, hang lights and make ornaments as a family.
Give thoughtful gifts
Handmade or experience gifts are often the most memorable.
Sing carols
Join a carol service or sing with neighbours.
Remember those alone
Invite someone who might spend Christmas by themselves.
Traditions and customs
Philippines
Simbang Gabi, nine dawn Masses, begins on December 16, and star-shaped parol lanterns light homes.
Germany
Christmas markets sell gingerbread and mulled wine, and gifts are often opened on Christmas Eve.
Mexico
Las Posadas re-enacts Mary and Joseph's search for shelter on the nine nights before Christmas.
Ethiopia
Ganna is celebrated on January 7 with church services and a traditional game.
Quotes
I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.
Wishes and messages
Greeting card
A 1080 × 1080 image, ready for WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram.
Social media captions
Merry and bright. 🎄 #MerryChristmas
All I want for Christmas is family time.
Cocoa, lights and good company.
Christmas Day dates
| Year | Date | Day of the week | Days from today |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | December 25 | Friday | 53 |
| 2027 | December 25 | Saturday | 418 |
| 2028 | December 25 | Monday | 784 |
| 2029 | December 25 | Tuesday | 1,149 |
| 2030 | December 25 | Wednesday | 1,514 |
| 2031 | December 25 | Thursday | 1,879 |
Frequently asked questions
When is Christmas?
Christmas Day is on December 25. Many Orthodox churches celebrate on January 7.
Why is Christmas on December 25?
The earliest record of the date comes from Rome in AD 336; the Bible does not give a date for Jesus's birth.
Last updated November 2, 2026