Do Quakers celebrate Christmas?

The answer depends on which Quaker you ask…

Historically, early Quakers did not treat Christmas as a special religious occasion. They considered every day a ‘Holy Day’, believing that all days are equally sacred as they offer an opportunity to deepen one’s connection with the Spirit. From this perspective, there was no need to wait for a particular date in the calendar to reflect on faith or spiritual life. This understanding still resonates with many Friends today.

Quakers also often view Christmas through the lens of simplicity. Much of modern Christmas culture, particularly consumerism and excess, can feel like a distraction from what matters spiritually. The season may prompt questions such as: Do we really need more possessions? What impact does our celebrating have on the planet? Are there simpler, more meaningful alternatives?

In practice, however, many Quakers do celebrate Christmas. For some, it is a valued cultural or family tradition; for others, it is a time to reflect on the story of Jesus and its meaning for their lives. Some Quaker Meetings hold a special Meeting for Worship on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, while others organise winter gatherings that may include carol singing, shared meals or other festivities.

Because Quakers come from diverse spiritual backgrounds, individuals may observe Christmas in different ways, or not at all, and may find other dates in the spiritual calendar more personally significant. What unites these approaches is a shared emphasis on thoughtful, intentional practice and the belief that the sacred can be found not just on one day, but in everyday life.

Find out more about how different Quakers celebrate Holy Days here.