When Is Belarusian Christmas in 2026?

Christmas in Belarus is unique compared to many other countries because it is celebrated twice each year. In 2026, Belarusians will observe Christmas on two different dates, reflecting the country’s religious diversity and calendar traditions.

Understanding when Christmas takes place in Belarus requires looking at Orthodox and Catholic Christianity, both of which play an important role in the country’s cultural and spiritual life.

Christmas Dates in Belarus in 2026

Official Christmas Dates

In 2026, Christmas in Belarus falls on the following days:

• Orthodox Christmas: Wednesday, 7 January 2026

• Catholic Christmas: Friday, 25 December 2026

Both dates are officially recognized, and both are public holidays in Belarus, meaning schools, government offices, and many businesses are closed on these days .

Why Does Belarus Celebrate Christmas Twice?

Belarus is one of the few countries in Europe where two Christmas celebrations coexist officially. This tradition is rooted in religious history rather than modern politics.

Orthodox Christianity in Belarus

The majority of Belarus’s population follows Eastern Orthodox Christianity. The Orthodox Church in Belarus continues to use the Julian calendar for major religious feasts.

Julian Calendar and Christmas

• The Julian calendar is currently 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar.

• Christmas is fixed on December 25 in the Julian calendar.

• This corresponds to January 7 in the modern Gregorian calendar.

As a result, Orthodox Christmas in Belarus is celebrated on January 7 every year, including in 2026.

Catholic Christianity in Belarus

A significant minority of Belarusians belong to the Roman Catholic Church, particularly in western regions near Poland and Lithuania.

Gregorian Calendar Observance

• At present, the Julian calendar lags 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar used worldwide.

• Christmas is celebrated on December 25.

• In 2026, this falls on Friday, 25 December.

Catholic Christmas is also recognized as a national public holiday in Belarus.

Orthodox Christmas in Belarus – January 7, 2026

Religious Significance

Orthodox Christmas marks the birth of Jesus Christ and is one of the most important religious events of the year. It is deeply spiritual and traditionally more solemn than New Year celebrations.

Christmas Eve Traditions (January 6)

Orthodox Christmas Eve is known for its strict traditions:

• Believers observe a day of fasting

• The first meal begins after the appearance of the first star

• A traditional dish called kutia (sweet grain porridge) is served

• Families gather for evening prayers

Late at night, many attend midnight church services, which can last several hours.

Christmas Day Customs (January 7)

On Christmas Day itself:

• Families visit relatives and close friends

• Festive meals replace fasting

• Greetings such as “Christ is born!” are exchanged

• Church attendance remains central to the day

January 7 is an official non-working day throughout Belarus.

Catholic Christmas in Belarus – December 25, 2026

Public Holiday Status

Catholic Christmas is fully recognized by the Belarusian state. In 2026, December 25 falls on a Friday, creating a long festive weekend for many people.

Catholic Christmas Traditions

Catholic celebrations in Belarus often include:

• Midnight Mass on December 24

• Decorated Christmas trees

• Nativity scenes in churches

• Gift-giving and family meals

• European-style festive markets in some cities

Although Catholic Christmas is celebrated earlier than Orthodox Christmas, it carries equal legal and cultural status.

How Christmas Is Celebrated Across Belarus

Urban Celebrations

In cities such as Minsk, Grodno, and Brest:

• Streets are decorated with lights

• Public squares host winter festivities

• Christmas markets and concerts are common

• Churches hold large holiday services

Rural Traditions

In villages and smaller towns:

• Christmas customs remain more traditional

• Folk songs and religious rituals are preserved

• Family gatherings play a central role

• Local church attendance is especially strong

Is Christmas in Belarus More Important Than New Year?

Interestingly, New Year’s Day is often celebrated more publicly and energetically than Christmas in Belarus. However:

• Christmas remains the most spiritually significant holiday

• New Year is more secular and entertainment-focused

• Christmas emphasizes faith, reflection, and family unity

Both holidays complement each other in Belarusian culture rather than compete.

Does Everyone in Belarus Celebrate Both Christmases?

Not everyone observes both dates, but many do.

Common Practices

• Orthodox believers usually celebrate January 7

• Catholics celebrate December 25

• Some families celebrate both, especially in mixed-faith households

• Non-religious citizens often treat both days as family holidays

This coexistence is a distinctive feature of Belarusian society.

Christmas in Belarus Compared to Neighboring Countries

Belarus shares similar traditions with several neighboring nations:

• Russia: Orthodox Christmas on January 7

• Ukraine: Recently shifted public celebrations to December 25, though some still observe January 7

• Poland & Lithuania: Catholic Christmas on December 25

Belarus stands out by officially recognizing both traditions nationwide.

Is Christmas a Public Holiday in Belarus in 2026?

Yes. In 2026, both Christmas dates are public holidays:

This dual recognition reflects Belarus’s historical and religious balance.

Key Takeaways: Christmas in Belarus 2026

• Belarus celebrates two Christmases every year

• Orthodox Christmas: January 7, 2026

• Catholic Christmas: December 25, 2026

• Both dates are official public holidays

• The tradition comes from different church calendars, not different beliefs

• Families, faith, and tradition are central to both celebrations

Christmas in Belarus in 2026 is not just about a date on the calendar—it is a reflection of history, faith, and cultural coexistence. By honoring both Orthodox and Catholic traditions, Belarus preserves a rare model of religious harmony that continues to shape national identity.

Whether celebrated on January 7 or December 25, Christmas in Belarus remains a time of peace, reflection, and family connection.