When is Christmas 2024? Know the date, history, and significance

Here’s all you need to know about Christmas 2024, from date to timing to history and more.

When is Christmas 2024: Date and Timings

Christmas is celebrated annually on December 25th to honour the birth anniversary of Jesus Christ. In 2024, Christmas will fall on a Wednesday. The festivities typically commence on Christmas Eve, with many attending a midnight mass or church service that begins at midnight on December 24th and extends into the early hours of December 25th. On Christmas Day, numerous churches conduct morning services to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, with start times varying, some as early as 6:00 a.m. or 7:00 a.m.

Why is Christmas celebrated?: History, Significance, Traditions

The origins of Christmas are deeply rooted in Christianity, marking the birth of Jesus Christ, whom Christians believe to be the Son of God and humanity’s saviour. The story of Christmas is derived from the Gospels of Matthew and Luke in the New Testament. According to these accounts, Jesus was born in Bethlehem, laid in a manger, and visited by shepherds and wise men who were guided by a star to find the newborn king.

Additionally, this date was likely chosen to coincide with existing pagan festivals celebrating the winter solstice, such as the Roman festival of Saturnalia. By aligning the celebration of Jesus’ birth with these festivals, the church aimed to facilitate the conversion of pagans to Christianity.