Christmas in Lebanon

The holiday season in Lebanon is a vibrant tapestry of cultural and religious celebrations, reflecting the country's diverse population. For expats and digital nomads spending their first Christmas and New Year's in Lebanon, the festivities offer a unique opportunity to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Lebanese people amidst the backdrop of the Mediterranean.

Christmas and New Year's Celebrations in Lebanon

In Lebanon, Christmas and New Year's are celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy. The festive atmosphere is palpable, with streets and homes adorned with lights, Christmas trees, and nativity scenes. The sound of carols fills the air, and families gather to share meals and exchange gifts. The holiday season is a time when the Lebanese showcase their knack for blending traditions, with both Christian and secular elements present in the celebrations.

Traditional Festivities and Events

Leading up to the holidays, numerous events take place across the country. Christmas markets pop up in major cities, offering everything from handcrafted goods to seasonal treats. Concerts and plays are common, often held in churches and community centers. In Beirut, the famous Beirut Souks Christmas Market is a must-visit, with its festive decorations and array of local and international goods.

The Lebanese Santa Claus

Santa Claus, known locally as "Baba Noel," is a beloved figure in Lebanon. Children eagerly await his visit, with many families arranging for someone to dress up as Baba Noel and distribute gifts. The tradition of gift-giving is widespread, with people exchanging presents ranging from sweets and toys to clothing and high-tech gadgets.

Christmas and New Year's Cuisine

Food plays a central role in Lebanese holiday celebrations. Traditional Christmas dishes include roast turkey or chicken, stuffed with rice and nuts, and an array of mezze—small dishes such as hummus, tabbouleh, and stuffed grape leaves. Desserts are particularly important, with maamoul (date or nut-filled cookies) and buche de Noel (Yule log cake) being holiday favorites. For New Year's, lentils are often eaten for good luck, and families toast to the coming year with local wines or anise-flavored arak.

Christmas Eve and Day Traditions

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are typically spent with family. Many attend midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, a solemn and joyous occasion that brings the community together. Churches across Lebanon hold services in Arabic, French, and English, catering to the diverse population. On Christmas Day, families enjoy a large lunch, often extending invitations to friends and neighbors, reflecting the Lebanese spirit of hospitality.

Church Attendance

Church attendance is common among the Christian population during the holiday season. Services are held on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Eve, with special liturgies and hymns that celebrate the birth of Jesus and the hope of the New Year. The churches, beautifully decorated with poinsettias and lights, become centers of communal celebration.

Notable Destinations for Holiday Festivities

Certain towns and neighborhoods in Lebanon are renowned for their holiday spirit. Jbeil (Byblos), one of the oldest cities in the world, is famous for its spectacular Christmas tree and decorations. The city hosts a festive Christmas village, complete with an ice-skating rink and live performances. Beirut's Hamra and Ashrafieh districts are also known for their elaborate holiday displays and bustling atmosphere.

As the holiday season unfolds in Lebanon, expats and digital nomads will find themselves immersed in a celebration that is both familiar and new. The fusion of customs, the joyous gatherings, and the delectable feasts create a holiday experience that is uniquely Lebanese. Whether strolling through a Christmas market, attending a midnight Mass, or sharing a meal with newfound friends, the spirit of the season is alive and well in this Mediterranean gem.