Countdown to Christmas
When is Christmas Day? Date, facts & history →Countdown Location
By default, holidays are counted down to midnight in your local time. You can change this below.
Christmas is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in the world, marking the birth of Jesus of Nazareth for Christians and a season of family, generosity, and light for billions more. The countdown above ticks down to the next Christmas Day, helping you plan gifts, travel, and the moment the festivities truly begin.
Whether you celebrate Christmas for its religious meaning, its midwinter warmth, or simply the time off with loved ones, the holiday blends ancient solstice customs with centuries of evolving tradition. Watch the timer climb toward the big day and use the tools below to keep your plans on track.
When is Christmas?
Christmas falls every year on December 25, a fixed date that never changes. Many people also observe Christmas Eve on December 24 and extend celebrations through the twelve days of Christmas into early January. The countdown above shows exactly how long remains until December 25 in your time zone. To compare the moment across cities, try the world clock, or use the holiday timer to track several festive dates at once.
Origins and history of Christmas
The date of December 25 was fixed in the Roman world by the fourth century, aligning the celebration of Christ's birth with midwinter festivals such as the Roman Saturnalia and the feast of Sol Invictus. Over time, Christmas absorbed traditions from across Europe, including evergreen decorations, gift giving, and feasting. The modern image of Santa Claus grew from Saint Nicholas, a fourth century bishop known for secret generosity, blended later with Dutch and English folklore.
How Christmas is celebrated
- Decorating an evergreen Christmas tree with lights and ornaments.
- Exchanging wrapped gifts on Christmas morning or Christmas Eve.
- Sharing a large meal with roast meats, sides, and seasonal desserts.
- Hanging stockings and leaving treats for Santa Claus.
- Singing carols, attending services, and gathering with family.
Planning the feast? The kitchen timer keeps your roast on schedule.
Christmas FAQ
Why is Christmas on December 25?
Early Christians chose December 25 by the fourth century, placing the celebration near the winter solstice and existing Roman midwinter festivals. The date has stayed fixed ever since.
What is the difference between Christmas Eve and Christmas Day?
Christmas Eve is December 24, the evening before the holiday, when many families gather and open gifts. Christmas Day is December 25, the holiday itself.
Why do Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas in January?
Some Orthodox churches follow the older Julian calendar, on which December 25 currently corresponds to January 7 in the Gregorian calendar used by most of the world.
Where does Santa Claus come from?
Santa Claus descends from Saint Nicholas, a fourth century bishop famous for secret gift giving, later shaped by Dutch and English traditions into the figure known today.
How long are the twelve days of Christmas?
The twelve days run from Christmas Day on December 25 through January 5, ending the night before Epiphany on January 6.