Christmas is acknowledged as a public holiday in numerous countries, with celebrations held on December 25th to honor the birth of Jesus Christ, a central figure in Christianity. However, not all nations observe Christmas due to differing religions, calendars, or cultures. This blog will delve into three countries abstaining from Christmas celebrations and explore their alternative festivities.
Saudi Arabia
Situated in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia, with a population of around 35 million, is the birthplace of Islam, followed by over 95% of the populace. Since Islam regards Jesus as a prophet rather than the son of God, Christmas is not recognized as a public holiday. Official celebrations and decorations are absent, though some Christians, mainly foreigners and expatriates, observe Christmas privately with the authorities’ consent.
In lieu of Christmas, Saudi Arabia joyously observes two major Islamic festivals: Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, and Eid al-Adha, commemorating Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael. These occasions involve prayers, feasts, gift-giving, and charitable activities.
China
With a population exceeding 1.4 billion, China, located in East Asia, boasts a diverse religious landscape, including Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Islam, and Christianity. However, Christmas is not a public holiday as Christianity accounts for only about 5%, lacking official recognition from the government. While official celebrations and decorations are absent, some urban Christians observe Christmas privately with the authorities’ tolerance.
Instead of Christmas, China revels in several traditional festivals such as the Chinese New Year, the Lantern Festival, the Dragon Boat Festival, and the Mid-Autumn Festival. The Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival, is particularly significant, marked by fireworks, lion dances, red envelopes, family reunions, and special foods.
Morocco
Situated in North Africa with a population of approximately 37 million, Morocco, at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, treasures a rich cultural heritage. With Islam representing over 99% of the population, the religion does not celebrate Jesus’ birth, making Christmas a non-public holiday. While official celebrations are absent, some Christians, mainly foreigners and expatriates, privately celebrate Christmas with the authorities’ respect.
In place of Christmas, Morocco observes two significant Islamic festivals: Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, along with other national and cultural events like the Throne Day, Independence Day, and the Mawlid, celebrating the birth of Prophet Muhammad. The Mawlid involves prayers, recitations, processions, and sweets.
Conclusion
Christmas is a globally celebrated holiday, yet cultural, historical, and religious disparities mean not all countries partake. This exploration of Saudi Arabia, China, and Morocco sheds light on their alternative festivities, emphasizing unique expressions of faith, culture, and identity.