A Christmas guide
Christmas in United Kingdom
Traditions, food and holiday customs
Main date
December 25
Gift bringer
Father Christmas (also called Santa)
Signature flavour
Lunch typically features roast turkey with stuffing, roast potatoes, Brussels sprouts and gravy, followed by Christmas pudding with brandy butter.
Christmas in the United Kingdom is centred on Christmas Day at home with family, followed by Boxing Day on December 26.
Christmas in United Kingdom is celebrated on December 25. The main festive figure is Father Christmas (also called Santa).
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When is Christmas celebrated in United Kingdom?
Christmas in United Kingdom falls on December 25.
Main traditions
Homes are decorated with a tree, lights and a wreath on the door. Children write letters to Father Christmas. Many families attend a carol service or Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. The monarch's Christmas message is broadcast on Christmas Day afternoon.
Christmas food
Lunch typically features roast turkey with stuffing, roast potatoes, Brussels sprouts and gravy, followed by Christmas pudding with brandy butter. Mince pies and Christmas cake are eaten throughout the season.
Gift giving customs
Stockings are hung by the fireplace or at the foot of the bed on Christmas Eve. Children open presents on the morning of December 25.
Santa or local Christmas figure
The festive figure most associated with Christmas in United Kingdom is Father Christmas (also called Santa).
Fun fact
Boxing Day, on December 26, is a public holiday and a major day for sport, sales and family walks.
Keep comparing
For the rituals, dishes and gift bringers in other countries, browse our Christmas around the world hub, compare customs side by side in the Christmas Traditions Explorer or plan your own December with the Christmas checklist.
Frequently asked questions
- When is Christmas celebrated in United Kingdom?
- Christmas in United Kingdom is celebrated on December 25.
- Who brings gifts to children in United Kingdom?
- In United Kingdom children traditionally receive gifts from Father Christmas (also called Santa).
- What do families eat for Christmas in United Kingdom?
- Lunch typically features roast turkey with stuffing, roast potatoes, Brussels sprouts and gravy, followed by Christmas pudding with brandy butter. Mince pies and Christmas cake are eaten throughout the season.
Sources
More countries
Christmas in Germany
Christmas in Germany is a season-long celebration that centres on Heiligabend (Christmas Eve), open-air Christmas markets and the four Sundays of Advent.
Christmas in Austria
Austria celebrates a quiet, family-focused Christmas. Cities and alpine villages alike fill with Adventmärkte, brass music and the scent of roasted chestnuts.
Christmas in Slovenia
Slovenia blends Alpine, Mediterranean and Slavic Christmas customs into a long festive season that runs from early December through Epiphany on January 6.