The holiday season hits differently when you’re Muslim. Whether you’re dodging Christmas carols at every corner, vibing with festive lights, or navigating complex family dynamics as a revert, everyone has their own take on this time of year. We asked you—our readers—about celebrating (and not celebrating) Christmas as a Muslim, and your responses were raw, honest, and full of relatable moments.
From keeping it Deen over Dunya to embracing cozy traditions with loved ones, here’s what you had to say.
Being a revert
It’s important to hear about the experiences of Muslim reverts around this time of year. We all know that change can be hard sometimes, especially because the holidays are synonymous with spending time with family.
“I do [celebrate Christmas], however, this is due to the fact I’m a revert with a Christian family,” one reader said.
Meanwhile, another said that they’re “trying not to but it’s hard as a revert”.
“I’m the only Muslim in my family so I celebrate with them,” another reader shared.
“I celebrate only because I am a revert and have not told my family in fear of safety,” one reader explained.
Deen over Dunya
Many of you would not be surprised to hear that the majority of our readers said they don’t celebrate Christmas, simply because they are Muslims.
To put it simply, one reader said they don’t because “it’s always Deen over Dunya!”
“Let’s not normalise the Western culture please,” another one said.
“The celebration of Christmas contributes to washing away our identities as Muslims,” a reader highlighted.
“I wish Muslim holidays got the same reverence,” another one said.
Integrating with others
While for some the answer was black and white, others expressed confusion, especially those living in countries where the holidays are widely celebrated.
“I work at a private island resort so we ‘celebrate’ with guests every year, with festive activities and gifts etc,” someone said.
Similarly, one reader explained: “I work in retail, so I wish my customers happy holidays but I don’t celebrate.”
“Secret santa is a must for my team every year; gifting is our love language,” another added.
But where do we draw the line?
One reader asked: “Are we Muslims allowed to say Merry Christmas to anyone?”
And another said: “Is enjoying the Christmas decors haram?”
What are your thoughts?
It’s tradition
Some of our readers said they embrace celebrating the holidays, especially because they get to spend time with loved ones.
“Even though I’m Muslim, we celebrate it [Christmas] as tradition,” one reader said.
“It’s more like a cultural holiday than a religious one,” another reader added.
“It’s a time to be with family and friends,” someone said.
Some Muslims even make the most of the food, Christmas movies and sharing gifts with others.’
“My family celebrates [Christmas] with gift-giving, watching movies and having a big dinner,” one reader explained.
“I receive a gift which I usually beg my parents for with the excuse that everyone does it,” someone said. “I live in one of the most Christian countries in Europe so its quite inevitable — I just eat a lot.”
Rewind and relax
Let’s not forget that the holidays fall at the end of the year when many of us have earned a well-deserved break. Some Muslims spend this time of year relaxing so that they’re ready to welcome the new year.
“Where I live, a lot of people celebrate it [Christmas] so I just relax for two weeks,” one reader said.
As for the countdown for the New Year, someone said they “celebrate [the holidays] as a new beginning.”
Someone else said they “just relax”.
And like a lot of people who celebrate Christmas, some Muslims only see their families and friends during this time of year.
“I don’t celebrate Christmas but I do gather with family — it’s the only time I see them,” a reader explained.
“I don’t celebrate but I spend time with my Muslim friends since there’s nothing to do,” someone said.
As for the Boxing Day sales, one reader said they don’t celebrate Christmas but they “sure do take advantage of the sales!”
Loved this convo? Follow Muslim Girl on all social media platforms for more real stories, thoughtful insights, and community vibes.
