Christmas is celebrated on 25 December by Pakistan’s Christian community, with church services, decorations, food and family visits. The day is also Quaid Day, so it is a public holiday for everyone. This guide describes Christmas in Pakistan, with a live countdown on our Days Until Christmas page.
Pakistan’s Christian community
Christians make up a small but long-established community in Pakistan, with large populations in Punjab cities such as Lahore, Faisalabad and Gujranwala, as well as Karachi and Islamabad.
Church services
Many attend midnight mass on Christmas Eve or services on Christmas morning. Historic churches include Lahore Cathedral (Cathedral Church of the Resurrection), Sacred Heart Cathedral in Lahore and St Patrick’s Cathedral in Karachi.
Decorations
Homes, churches and Christian neighbourhoods are decorated with lights, stars, trees and nativity scenes. Some areas hold Christmas markets selling decorations, cakes and gifts.
Food
Families prepare cakes, cookies and festive dishes such as biryani, korma and kheer. Sharing food with neighbours of all faiths is common.
Carols and community
Carol singing groups visit homes in the days before Christmas. Many organisations hold events for children.
Christmas and Quaid Day
25 December is Quaid-e-Azam’s birthday as well; see Days Until Quaid-e-Azam Day. Government offices close, and some employers give Christian staff extra leave around Christmas. Check the Pakistan Public Holidays list.
Greeting neighbours
A simple “Merry Christmas” or a box of sweets is a kind way to share joy with Christian friends and colleagues.
Planning
Use the countdown to plan shopping and travel. For budget gift ideas, read Christmas gift budget planning. For the New Year that follows, see Days Until New Year.
Christmas in schools and workplaces
Many schools run by churches hold Christmas plays and nativity performances before the winter break. Offices with Christian staff often share a cake or hold a small celebration. These moments build friendship across communities and remind everyone of the country’s diversity.
Frequently asked questions
Is Christmas a public holiday in Pakistan?
Yes, 25 December is a public holiday, also marking Quaid Day.
Where are famous churches in Pakistan?
Lahore Cathedral, Sacred Heart Cathedral in Lahore and St Patrick’s Cathedral in Karachi.
How do Pakistani Christians celebrate?
With church services, decorations, family meals and carols.