Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. Although, many of the traditions have root in Pagan celebrations. Christmas is a time most people choose to spend with family, falling on December 25 of every year.
Upcoming Dates For Christmas Day
Christmas will always fall on December 25th. The day before is known as Christmas Eve, which may be a holiday in some areas. The following day is Boxing Day, which may also be a holiday. If Christmas lands on a Saturday, the holiday is often moved to the day after. However, since Boxing Day is also a holiday, the day after will land on the Tuesday. Here are the upcoming dates for Christmas:
- Monday, December 25, 2017
- Tuesday, December 25, 2018
- Wednesday, December 25, 2019
- Friday, December 25, 2020
- Saturday, December 25, 2021 - Holiday lands on Tuesday, December 28, 2021
- Sunday, December 25, 2022
- Monday, December 25, 2023
- Wednesday, December 25, 2024
- Thursday, December 25, 2025
Where Is Christmas Day Considered a Holiday?
Christmas is considered a holiday everywhere in the United Kingdom. The only exceptions are often homeless shelters and places that serve food. These establishments may choose to remain open, offering services. However, most other businesses will close for the day. This includes public transportation, which is largely unavailable. Families often choose to spend time together, or in places of worship. Families may also choose to take the four day weekend to visit other family members. Some may even choose to go on vacation. There may be traffic delays in certain areas, so plan ahead.
Festivities & Events During Christmas Day
Before the arrival of Christmas, families often decorate their homes. These decorations go inside and outside, often attracting attention from neighbors and friends. These decorations include putting up a Christmas tree and decorating it with trinkets and garland. The tradition is that on Christmas morning, children gather in front of the tree and unwrap presents. These presents come from "Santa" or the parents. Exchanging gifts may continue throughout the day, if family or friends come calling. For dinner, there is often a feast, shared with friends and family. Churches will have services that families may enjoy on the day before Christmas, as well as Christmas day.
A Brief History About Christmas Day
In the Christian religion, Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. The tradition of gift giving may also be traced to the bible, as the three wise men showed the newborn with gifts. However, many of the celebrations land in the Pagan tradition. These traditions include decorating the home, erecting a tree and even the gift giving. These Pagan celebrations were to celebrate the winter solstice. They have been adapted to celebrate family life. This may include holidays, vacations, or simply staying home and inviting distant relatives to dine.