These countries don’t celebrate Christmas

18 December 2025

For many around the world, Christmas Day passes quietly unnoticed and uncelebrated. Faithful Witness asked what December 25th looks like in communities where Christ is least known.

By Faithful Witness

For many of us, December 25 means family, carols and worship. But in many places, it’s just another day. People go to work, run errands, and never hear about the birth of Jesus. Faithful Witness teams asked communities: “What are you doing on December 25?” Here’s what they found.

  • Central Asia: Gabriel met Vera, a pharmacist who dreams of learning English. Their weekly lessons have opened doors to talk about the hope Jesus brings.
  • South Asia: Believers face uncertainty. New laws closed many churches and people wait to see if they can gather at all.
  • Nigeria: Among the Fulani, Christmas is cultural. Friends eat, drink, and exchange gifts. One man, Isah, received a New Testament as a gift and asked for prayer.
  • North Africa: December 25 feels like any other workday. However a small group of believers plans to meet, shining light in a place where faith is often hidden.
  • Thailand: Christmas is seen as a “foreigner holiday.” Malls sparkle, but most don’t know its true meaning. Local teams are sharing the gospel with families at a bilingual school.

Christmas may not be celebrated everywhere, but the message of Christ is for everyone. 

Among the Fulani, Christmas is cultural. Friends eat, drink, and exchange gifts. One man, Isah, received a New Testament as a gift and asked for prayer.

Want the full Faithful Witness story?

Please pray

  • For these communities and consider how you can share the hope of Jesus where He is not yet known.