What are the major global holidays in December?
December is packed with global holidays, including Christmas Day (December 25), Hanukkah (dates vary), Boxing Day (December 26), Kwanzaa (December 26–January 1), New Year’s Eve (December 31), and many regional celebrations such as St. Nicholas Day, Bodhi Day, and Omisoka.
From religious traditions to cultural festivals, December offers celebrations that bring people together worldwide.
December Global Holidays – Complete List
| Date (2025) | Holiday | Country/Region | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 1 | World AIDS Day | Global | Health Awareness |
| Dec 6 | St. Nicholas Day | Many European countries | Religious/Cultural |
| Dec 8 | Bodhi Day | Japan, Buddhist communities | Religious |
| Dec 10 | Human Rights Day | Global | UN Observance |
| Dec 21 | Winter Solstice | Northern Hemisphere | Seasonal/Cultural |
| Dec 22–30 | Hanukkah | Jewish communities worldwide | Religious |
| Dec 24 | Christmas Eve | Global (Christian communities) | Religious/Cultural |
| Dec 25 | Christmas Day | Global | Religious/Cultural |
| Dec 26 | Boxing Day | UK, Canada, Australia, NZ | Public Holiday |
| Dec 26–Jan 1 | Kwanzaa | US, African diaspora | Cultural |
| Dec 31 | New Year’s Eve | Global | Cultural/Celebratory |
Why December Holidays Matter Globally
December holidays aren’t just about days off work.
They represent history, faith, cultural heritage, and shared human joy.
From candle-lit traditions to massive fireworks displays, each celebration has a unique story.
Major December Holidays Explained
1. Christmas Day – December 25
- Celebrated in over 160 countries.
- Marks the birth of Jesus Christ in Christian tradition.
- Customs include gift-giving, festive meals, and decorations.
2. Hanukkah – Dates Vary
- Jewish Festival of Lights lasting 8 days.
- Traditions include lighting the menorah, playing dreidel, and eating fried foods.
3. Kwanzaa – Dec 26–Jan 1
- African-American cultural holiday created in 1966.
- Focuses on unity, heritage, and community.
4. Boxing Day – December 26
- Originates from the UK as a day to give to the less fortunate.
- Now also associated with sports events and shopping sales.
5. New Year’s Eve – December 31
- Global countdown to the new year.
- Celebrations range from fireworks to family gatherings.
FAQs
Q1: How many global holidays are there in December?
There are over a dozen widely recognized holidays in December, plus many regional observances.
Q2: What is the most celebrated holiday in December?
Christmas Day is the most widely celebrated, observed in over 160 countries.
Q3: Which December holidays are non-religious?
Examples include Boxing Day, Human Rights Day, and New Year’s Eve.
Q4: Why is December full of holidays?
Cultural, religious, and seasonal events align near the end of the year, creating a festive season.
Also see:
Christmas Countdown Calendar | Christianity Holidays: Complete List of Religious Observances