Muslim celebrations Archives

As a National Holiday, when hardly any businesses are open, nearly everyone in the US has a day off. What do non-Christians and non-religious people do on Christmas Day?

Other Religious Traditions

Many religious traditions include a midwinter holiday, and those celebrations occasionally fall on December 25th. Even when they don’t, many faith communities take advantage of a day off from work and school to celebrate together.

Being Jewish or Buddhist on Christmas Day

In 2024, Hannukah and Christmas fell on the same day. However, this synching only happens about five times in a century.

I have a Jewish friend whose family tradition was to go to the movies. Most major U.S. theater chains are open on December 25th with early-afternoon showtimes and full or modified schedules. However, some have holiday surcharges.

One year when viewing Christmas decorations in the neighborhood, my Chinese-American granddaughter said, “We’re Buddhists and we don’t have holidays, but we celebrate Christmas as a cultural tradition.” Her family decorates a tree, exchanges gifts, etc.

Another family I know who practice Buddhism, and do not subscribe to any particular religion, traditionally go to a Chinese restaurant. Virtually all Chinese restaurants are open and Christmas Day is among the busiest days of the year for many.

Although the family I mentioned is Buddhist, eating Chinese food on December 25th is a widespread tradition among Jewish Americans. This practice began as far back as the 19th century, often attributed to the proximity of Jewish and Chinese American communities in Manhattan’s Lower East Side. Today, the tradition has spread across America. One Chinatown restaurant in Chicago reported that in 2003 “I think we had the entire Jewish community here”, with their 350-seat restaurant being completely booked on December 25.

Being Muslim on Christmas Day

What about Muslims? Although Jesus and Mary are central to the Muslim faith, Christmas isn’t necessarily treated as a religious holiday. As far as I could find, there is no stand-out tradition in the Muslim community. Some treat it as a normal day, and rest or attend to personal matters. Others participate in celebrations or visit family, with many emphasizing maintaining good relations and respecting others’ traditions.

According to Fawzia Mirza, celebrations on the day often involve “auntie and uncle” parties with other U.S. South Asians. And also bowling! “The favorite Muslim pastime is bowling. Not on the day itself, but it’s like everyone else is visiting family and opening presents—we’re going bowling.”

Not every bowling alley is open on December 25th. Typically, hours are shortened and may vary by date, so check local hours and reservations if you’re interested.

Secular Traditions

Atheists and agnostics often celebrate Christmas non-religiously as a cultural holiday—focusing on family, friends, feasting, gifts, and togetherness, sometimes attending Unitarian services or enjoying secular traditions.

With this huge emphasis on family, what if you are alone—by choice or otherwise?

Consider spending Christmas Day alone as an opportunity for self-care and personal activities you enjoy, such as treating it like any other day, embracing solitude, and doing a mix of reflective, enjoyable, or meaningful tasks you choose. A friend is planning to spend the day alternately sewing dance costumes and playing video games.

And if you want ideas, there are many suggestions online!