Christmas in Pakistan
Pakistan's roughly 3 million Christians celebrate Christmas amid a Muslim-majority population of 230 million. The holiday is not a public holiday, but Christian communities in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and Punjab hold church services, community gatherings, and modest celebrations. The Church of Pakistan (a union of Anglican, Methodist, and Lutheran traditions) leads worship in Urdu and Punjabi.
Christmas in Pakistan benefits from a fortunate coincidence: December 25 is also Quaid-e-Azam Day, the birthday of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Pakistan's founder, making it a national holiday for the entire country. Pakistan's approximately 3 million Christians, concentrated in Punjab and Sindh, celebrate with church services in Urdu and Punjabi, community feasts, and modest decorations. The holiday is small in scale but significant as an expression of faith by one of Asia's oldest Christian communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Christmas a holiday in Pakistan?
December 25 is a national holiday in Pakistan, but as Quaid-e-Azam Day (birthday of Pakistan's founder), not as Christmas. Christians benefit from the general holiday to celebrate Christmas. The coincidence is unique among Muslim-majority countries.
Traditions & Customs
Bara Din (Big Day)
Like in India, Christmas is called Bara Din (Big Day) in Pakistan. December 25 also happens to be Quaid-e-Azam Day (birthday of Pakistan's founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah), making it a national holiday.
Church Services
The Church of Pakistan and Catholic churches hold Christmas services in Urdu, Punjabi, and English. Churches in Lahore's old city are among the most historic.
Community Celebrations
Christian neighborhoods in Lahore, Karachi, and other cities hold community celebrations with food, music, and decorations. The celebrations are modest but heartfelt.
Christmas and Quaid-e-Azam Day
The coincidence of Christmas and the founder's birthday means December 25 is a national holiday for all Pakistanis. Christian celebrations benefit from the general holiday atmosphere.
Key Dates
Bara Din / Quaid-e-Azam Day
National holiday (for Quaid-e-Azam Day). Christians celebrate Christmas. Church services and community gatherings.
Christmas Carols
Silent Night
Various languagesSung in Urdu, Punjabi, and English at Pakistani churches.