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Christmas Eve

Get ready for the festive season - plan your Christmas Eve celebration with family, friends, and delicious food!

Thursday

December 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEDecember 24

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYFederal

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate Christmas Eve on December 24 with family and friends! This day has been celebrated for centuries and is one of the most anticipated days of the year. People from all over the world look forward to this special time where they can gather together, exchange gifts, sing carols, eat festive meals, and create lasting memories with one another. From decorating homes and trees to baking treats - it's a magical holiday that we just can't wait for!

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TIMELINE

Christmas Eve Timeline

First Recorded Christmas Eve

The first recorded Christmas celebration on December 25 took place in Rome, setting December 24 as Christmas Eve.

First Nativity Scene

Saint Francis of Assisi creates the first nativity scene, a core aspect of Christmas Eve traditions worldwide.

Rise of Christmas Traditions

Many modern Christmas traditions, such as exchanging gifts and decorating Christmas trees, become widespread during this century.

"A Visit from St. Nicholas"

The iconic poem, also known as "Twas the Night Before Christmas," is published, cementing the image of Santa Claus in popular culture.

WWI Christmas Truce

During World War I, soldiers on both sides partook in unofficial ceasefires, known as the Christmas Truce, highlighting the holiday's peacekeeping spirit.

"NORAD Tracks Santa" Begins

The inaugural "NORAD Tracks Santa" program begins, allowing children worldwide to follow Santa Claus's progress on Christmas Eve.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Christmas Eve

Decorate the Tree

Gather the family together and get into the Christmas spirit by decorating the tree. Hang ornaments, twinkle lights, garland and of course, a star on top. This is a festive tradition that will bring lots of joy.

Go Caroling

Load up with hot cocoa and cookies as you join in your community’s caroling around the neighborhood. Spread cheer by singing classic carols like “Silent Night” and “Jingle Bells”.

ORGANIZE

Organize a Gift Exchange

Gift exchange games are a great way to bring people together and get them in the holiday spirit. Get your family and friends together for an evening of fun and laughter, playing classic gift exchange games like White Elephant or Secret Santa.

MAKE

Make Christmas Cookies

Bake some classic Christmas cookies with your family and friends. Cut out shapes like snowflakes, candy canes, stars, angels, or even reindeer! Decorate with colorful icing and sprinkles to make them extra festive.

WATCH

Watch a Holiday Movie

Grab some popcorn and cuddle up for a holiday movie marathon! There’s nothing quite like watching classic holiday movies such as The Polar Express, Home Alone or Miracle on 34th Street to make it feel like Christmas.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Christmas Eve

The anticipation of Christmas morning

On Christmas Eve, there's nothing better than going to bed with a little excitement in your heart knowing what wonders await you on the other side! It might be something as simple as opening presents with your kids or taking part in some sleepy morning fun - either way, the anticipation of the next day helps to make special memories.

It's a day of preparations

Christmas Eve is a great time to get ready for the big day. From setting up decorations and wrapping presents to cooking up delicious treats, it's always thrilling to stay busy preparing for all the holiday cheer that comes with Christmas Day!

Family gatherings

Spending time with family is one of the greatest parts of any holiday. On Christmas Eve, friends and family usually come together to celebrate the season and share stories and laughter. Whether you're having a fancy dinner or just snuggling up on the couch with your loved ones, it's sure to be a night you won't forget anytime soon!