Christmas in Eritrea
Eritrean Christmas (Lidet) is celebrated on January 7 by the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church, which claims a Christian heritage dating to the 4th century. The celebration follows a 40-day fast and features the traditional game of Gebeta and the wearing of white shamma (cotton wraps) to church services.
Eritrean Christmas (Lidet) on January 7 is a deeply religious occasion. The 40-day fast that precedes it gives the Christmas feast of zigni (spicy stew) on injera its full impact. The Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church, closely related to the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, conducts services in Ge'ez and Tigrinya. The visual image of thousands of worshippers in white shamma streaming from churches at dawn is Eritrea's most powerful Christmas scene.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Eritrean Christmas?
January 7, following the Ge'ez calendar used by the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church. A 40-day fast precedes the celebration.
Traditions & Customs
40-Day Fast
Eritrean Orthodox Christians fast for 40 days before Christmas, avoiding all animal products.
White Shamma
Worshippers wear white cotton wraps (shamma or netela) to the Christmas church service, creating a sea of white.
Gebeta
A traditional board game similar to mancala, played during the Christmas season.
Himbasha
A celebration bread baked with cardamom and decorated with a cross pattern. Served at Christmas and other holidays.
Key Dates
Lidet
Christmas Day. Church services, family feast of zigni and injera.
Christmas Carols
Eritrean Orthodox Hymns
Ancient hymns in Ge'ez and Tigrinya performed during the Christmas liturgy.