Christmas in Iran
Christmas in Iran is celebrated by the country's Armenian and Assyrian Christian minorities, roughly 300,000 people. The Armenian community, concentrated in Isfahan's Jolfa district and Tehran, celebrates on January 6. The Assyrian community celebrates on December 25. Iran officially recognizes Christmas as a holiday for its Christian citizens, and Christians hold reserved seats in the Iranian parliament.
Christmas in Iran exists within a framework that few outsiders expect. The Islamic Republic officially recognizes the holiday for its Christian minorities and reserves parliamentary seats for Armenian, Assyrian, Jewish, and Zoroastrian citizens. The Armenian community, concentrated in Isfahan's historic Jolfa district and Tehran, celebrates January 6 with ancient liturgical traditions in the shadow of the stunning Vank Cathedral. The 17th-century church, with its fusion of Armenian and Persian artistic styles, is one of the most beautiful Christmas settings in the Middle East.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Iranians celebrate Christmas?
Iran's Armenian and Assyrian Christian minorities celebrate Christmas (January 6 and December 25 respectively). The holiday is officially recognized by the Iranian government, and Christians hold reserved seats in parliament. The celebrations are concentrated in Isfahan's Jolfa district and Tehran.
Traditions & Customs
Armenian Christmas in Isfahan
The Jolfa district of Isfahan, established by Shah Abbas I in 1606 for relocated Armenian merchants, is the center of Iranian Armenian Christmas. The Vank Cathedral holds elaborate January 6 services.
Little Fast
Armenian Christians observe a 25-day fast before Christmas, eating only plant-based foods. The fast is broken with harissa (wheat and chicken porridge) on Christmas morning.
Official Recognition
Iran's constitution reserves seats in parliament for Armenian, Assyrian, Jewish, and Zoroastrian minorities. Christmas is an officially recognized holiday for Christians.
Key Dates
Assyrian Christmas
The Assyrian Christian community celebrates.
Armenian Christmas
Armenian Christmas and Epiphany. Main celebrations at Vank Cathedral in Isfahan.
Christmas Carols
Armenian Hymns
SharakanAncient Armenian liturgical hymns performed at Vank Cathedral and other Iranian Armenian churches.