Christmas is among the most popular holidays in the Christian calendar and Syrians actively celebrate it.
Christmas in Syria is perhaps surprisingly a big deal and symbols of Christmas can be found throughout all of Damascus.
In fact, many Syrians, Christian or not, are adorned in Santa hats and bells. Also, Christmas trees are present, and many people flock to the Qassaa neighborhood to celebrate as a community.

The Celebrations of Christmas in Syria

Christmas in Syria is actually widely celebrated, not just in Christian communities!
While only 10% of the Syrian population follows Christianity, most Syrian people celebrate Christmas and share greetings and good wishes with their neighbors and friends using the Arabic word “Milad Majid,” which means “Merry Christmas.”Churches hold special midnight masses, and the streets in Christian-majority areas are
adorned with lights and Christmas trees which create an atmosphere of unity and
warmth.
Usually, in Syria, you can feel the Christmas celebration atmosphere approaching from late November or December to early January.

Events and Celebrations for Christians in Syria

There are many holidays in Christianity, some of which are better known than others, and all holidays can be celebrated or observed differently.
In August, there is the Marmarita Carnival, a celebration of the Feast of the Virgin Mary held in the small community of Marmarita in the Homs countryside.
There is also the Feast of the Cross in September, which celebrates Saint Helene’s finding of the original cross and is held in Maaloula, one of the most important towns in Syria for Syrian Orthodox Christians.
In January, Solemnity of Mary.

Christmas Celebrations In Syria

The weather is usually very cold in Syria during the months of celebrations.
Christians celebrate their most important holiday.
The celebrations take many forms from spectacular Christmas trees, colorful decorations, and Christmas songs blasting from almost everywhere to life-size nativity scenes in big and famous churches and squares in Damascus.
Santa Claus can be found walking the streets of Damascus! Syrians call Father Christmas ‘Papa Noel’ although the word Santa Claus is also quite common
In the Christian quarter of the capital, you can find many Churches buzzing with heartwarming cultural performances.
The houses, buildings, trees, shopping centers, and roads are festooned with Christmas lights to reflect the moods of the Christmas season.

Tradition of Christmas in Syria

Syrian Christmas traditions include attending midnight mass, lighting candles, and setting up nativity scenes at home. One unique tradition is the lighting of bonfires in some villages.
Another cherished custom is visiting relatives and
neighbors to exchange blessings and seasonal treats.
The streets are alive with laughter, and music.
Also, the scent of festive street food through the air.
Every building and every street corner seems to be part of one grand celebration.

The Food on Christmas night in Syria

Of course, no Syrian event would be complete without more Syrian food than you can eat, and Christmas is no different!
Christmas dinner is also a tradition followed by Christians in Syria, eating lamb or turkey, pastries, nuts, and homemade dishes.
Families often gather to prepare meals together, ensuring that every dish reflects love and care.

New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Day, which is on January 1, marks the start of the year, and it’s a public holiday in many countries.
Christmas is a time of shopping, church attendance, and in-home parties. New Year’s Eve is a time for remembering the past and looking forward to the future.
New Year’s Eve in Syria is celebrated by people of all backgrounds, making it a truly inclusive
festivity.
In addition, families and friends gather to welcome the new year with fireworks, music, and traditional meals. Many people also engage in the tradition of setting New Year’s resolutions for a fresh start.
Actually, New Year is a public holiday in Syria. It is a day off for the general population, and schools and most businesses are closed.

Join us this Christmas in Syria

Traditions from other nations are making inroads in Syria. In this photo of Hamidiyeh Souk in Damascus, shoppers can find all kinds of Christmas tree decorations along with red stockings to hang up on Christmas Eve.
You can see Everyone in full celebration, out on the streets, coming together to celebrate with markets, dancing in the streets, and the Christmas light display.

fell in love with Syria for its incredible history, food, and lovely Syrian people. Wandering through the narrow ancient streets, buying desserts in the Souq, marveling at the architecture of the mosques and churches, and drinking tea in a Qushleh café.
Our guide’s knowledge of the incredible sites in Syria that you want to visit is just perfect.
Join us for a very special Syria Christmas tour

Souvenirs You Can Take With You from Syria About Christmas

For those visiting Syria during Christmas, there are unique souvenirs to bring back.
Traditional Syrian ornaments make meaningful gifts.
Additionally, you can purchase local delicacies like Maamoul or a bottle of Syrian olive oil, which is
often used in festive cooking.
In fact, during the Christmas season, there are a lot of gifts decorated for Christmas.

Looking for somewhere unique to spend your Christmas this year? Join us in Syria and create your unique Christmas tale for your family and friends back home.

Want to Explore Syria? Embark on a journey to Syria.

For more information about Syria please get in touch with us today! Alternatively, check out our extensive range of group Syria tours.