5 Ways Turkey Celebrates Christmas Differently

Christmas is a holiday that is celebrated by people all around the world, but the way it is observed can vary greatly from country to country. In Turkey, Christmas is not a national holiday, but it is still celebrated by the country's small Christian minority, which is made up of mostly Armenian, Greek, and Catholic communities. Here are 5 ways Turkey celebrates Christmas differently:

Turkey has a unique cultural identity that is shaped by its history, geography, and religion. As a result, Christmas traditions in Turkey are often a blend of Eastern and Western customs. For example, New Year's Eve is a more widely celebrated holiday in Turkey than Christmas, and it is often marked with fireworks, parties, and gift-giving.

1. Christmas is Not a National Holiday

In Turkey, Christmas is not a national holiday, and it is not widely celebrated by the general population. However, the country's Christian minority, which makes up about 0.2% of the population, observes the holiday with special services and traditions. Armenian and Greek churches in Turkey often hold midnight mass on Christmas Eve, which is attended by the local Christian community.

Christmas Services in Turkey

Christmas services in Turkey are often conducted in the local language, and they may include traditional hymns and carols. Some churches may also hold special events, such as nativity plays and concerts, to mark the occasion. In Istanbul, the Patriarchate of Constantinople, which is the spiritual leader of the world's Orthodox Christians, holds a special Christmas service at the St. George's Cathedral.

2. New Year's Eve is More Widely Celebrated

In Turkey, New Year's Eve is a more widely celebrated holiday than Christmas. It is often marked with fireworks, parties, and gift-giving, and it is a time for family and friends to come together. Many Turks also observe the tradition of exchanging gifts on New Year's Eve, rather than on Christmas Day.

Traditional New Year's Eve Foods

In Turkey, traditional New Year's Eve foods include dishes such as roast turkey, stuffed grape leaves, and baklava. Many Turks also eat 12 grapes at midnight, which is a tradition that is believed to bring good luck in the coming year.

3. Gift-Giving is Not as Common

In Turkey, gift-giving is not as common during Christmas as it is in many Western countries. However, it is becoming more popular in recent years, especially among the younger generation. Many Turks also exchange gifts on New Year's Eve, rather than on Christmas Day.

Traditional Christmas Gifts

In Turkey, traditional Christmas gifts include items such as chocolates, cakes, and flowers. Many Turks also give gifts to children, such as toys and clothing, on New Year's Eve.

4. Christmas Decorations are Not as Elaborate

In Turkey, Christmas decorations are not as elaborate as they are in many Western countries. However, many churches and homes are decorated with traditional Christmas decorations, such as wreaths, garlands, and Christmas trees.

Traditional Christmas Symbols

In Turkey, traditional Christmas symbols include items such as the Christmas tree, the nativity scene, and the star of Bethlehem. Many Turks also display these symbols in their homes and churches during the Christmas season.

5. Christmas is a Time for Family and Friends

In Turkey, Christmas is a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate the holiday season. Many Turks observe the tradition of gathering with loved ones on Christmas Day and New Year's Eve, and they often share traditional foods and drinks during these gatherings.

Traditional Christmas Foods

In Turkey, traditional Christmas foods include dishes such as roasted lamb, stuffed grape leaves, and baklava. Many Turks also drink traditional beverages, such as Turkish coffee and tea, during the Christmas season.

As you can see, Turkey celebrates Christmas differently than many Western countries. While the holiday is not widely observed by the general population, the country's Christian minority observes the holiday with special services and traditions. Whether you're celebrating Christmas or New Year's Eve, Turkey is a great place to experience the holiday season in a unique and cultural way.

We hope you've enjoyed this article about how Turkey celebrates Christmas differently. If you have any thoughts or experiences you'd like to share, please leave a comment below.