Best Places to Visit in Bangladesh for Christmas Cheer

As the festive season approaches, expats and digital nomads in Bangladesh may be looking for places to soak up the holiday spirit. While Christmas is not as widely celebrated in Bangladesh as in some other parts of the world, there are still pockets of festivity that can provide a sense of seasonal cheer. From vibrant markets to community gatherings, here are some places where you can find holiday festivities in December.

Dhaka's Christian Communities

In the capital city of Dhaka, the Christian communities, particularly in areas like Tejgaon and Luxmibazar, come alive during December. Streets are adorned with festive lights and decorations, and local churches hold special services and events. The community's warmth and the sound of carols provide a cozy atmosphere for anyone looking to experience the holiday spirit. While there isn't a specific holiday market, the sense of community and shared joy is palpable.

We Recommend: Visiting the St. Mary's Cathedral around Christmas Eve to experience a beautiful midnight mass and the communal harmony that defines the holiday season in this part of Dhaka.

Chittagong's GEC Circle

Chittagong, known for its diverse cultural heritage, also hosts Christmas celebrations, especially around the GEC Circle area. The local Christian community decorates their homes and streets, and you can find small pop-up markets selling Christmas trinkets and homemade treats. The festive atmosphere is complemented by the cooler weather of December, making it a pleasant experience for holiday strolls.

We Recommend: Sampling the homemade cakes and cookies that are often sold by local families during this time, as they offer a taste of the local Christmas culinary traditions.

Sylhet's Jaflong Area

While Sylhet is predominantly known for its tea gardens and natural beauty, the Jaflong area has a small but vibrant Christian community that celebrates Christmas. The local churches are beautifully decorated, and you can find Christmas-themed events that bring together people from various backgrounds to celebrate the festive season.

We Recommend: Taking a trip to the nearby tea gardens, which are often quieter during this time of year, providing a serene backdrop to the holiday festivities.

Cox's Bazar Beach

Cox's Bazar, with its stunning beach, is a popular destination year-round, but during December, the area takes on a festive flair. Hotels and resorts often host Christmas parties and dinners for their guests, complete with decorations and seasonal entertainment. The beach itself may not have traditional Christmas markets, but the holiday spirit is certainly in the air.

We Recommend: Booking a stay at one of the beachfront resorts that offer special Christmas-themed events, complete with a festive feast and often a visit from Santa Claus for the children.

Banani's Road 11 in Dhaka

Banani's Road 11 is known for its upscale shops and restaurants, and during December, many of these establishments embrace the holiday spirit with decorations and special promotions. While it's more commercial than traditional, the area offers a modern take on Christmas festivities, with plenty of opportunities for holiday shopping and dining.

We Recommend: Enjoying a festive meal at one of the international restaurants on Road 11, which often feature special holiday menus with seasonal delicacies.

Old Dhaka's Armenian Church

The historical Armenian Church in Old Dhaka is a must-visit during the Christmas season. The church, which dates back to the 18th century, holds a special Christmas service that is attended by both the local Armenian community and visitors. The area around the church is also decorated, providing a glimpse into the rich history of one of Dhaka's oldest Christian communities.

We Recommend: Attending the Christmas service at the Armenian Church to experience a piece of Dhaka's history and the solemn beauty of the holiday celebrated in this ancient setting.

Rajshahi's Christian Para

Rajshahi, known for its silk industry and mangoes, also has a quaint area known as Christian Para where the local Christian community celebrates Christmas. The area is decorated with lights and nativity scenes, and local churches host various events and services. It's a quieter celebration compared to the larger cities but offers a more intimate holiday experience.

We Recommend: Exploring the silk markets of Rajshahi after enjoying the Christmas festivities, as the city is famous for its high-quality silk products, perfect for holiday gifts.

While Bangladesh may not have the same level of Christmas markets and events as some other countries, the places mentioned above offer expats and digital nomads a chance to experience the holiday spirit in a unique setting. Whether it's through community gatherings, church services, or festive meals, there's a way for everyone to feel a little bit of holiday cheer in December.