Christmas in Jordan

The holiday season in Jordan offers a unique experience for expats and digital nomads, blending local customs with global festive traditions. For those spending their first Christmas and New Year's in Jordan, the atmosphere is a mix of the country's rich cultural heritage and the universal spirit of celebration.

Christmas and New Year's Celebrations in Jordan

In Jordan, a predominantly Muslim country, Christmas is not as widely celebrated as in predominantly Christian countries. However, the Christian minority, along with expats and tourists, ensures that the holiday spirit is alive and well. You'll find Christmas trees, lights, and decorations adorning homes, hotels, and some shopping areas, particularly in Amman and other cities with larger Christian communities.

New Year's Eve, on the other hand, is celebrated by a broader audience. It's a time for festive gatherings, fireworks, and parties. Hotels and restaurants often host special events and dinners, making it a lively time to socialize and ring in the new year.

Local Traditions and Festive Events

Leading up to the holidays, various events take place, such as Christmas bazaars and markets where you can buy handicrafts, decorations, and gifts. Choirs and music performances are also common, with carolers sometimes seen in larger malls and public spaces.

While Santa Claus isn't a traditional figure in Jordanian culture, the influence of Western media has made him a recognizable symbol of Christmas cheer. Children may encounter "Baba Noel," as he's sometimes called, in shopping centers and at festive events.

Gift-Giving and Festive Foods

Gift-giving is a part of the Christmas celebration for those who observe the holiday in Jordan. Presents tend to be thoughtful and often include handicrafts, sweets, or items reflecting Jordanian culture.

Traditional foods and desserts play a significant role in the festivities. Christmas dinners might feature dishes like mansaf, the national dish of Jordan made with lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice or bulgur. For dessert, ma'amoul, a type of shortbread pastry filled with dates or nuts, is popular, as well as other Middle Eastern sweets.

On New Year's Eve, a special dinner is often prepared, which might include a variety of international and local dishes, reflecting the cosmopolitan nature of Jordan's expat community.

Christmas Eve and Day Customs

For those who celebrate Christmas, the evening and day are typically spent with family and friends. Many attend church services; in Amman, the churches in Fuheis and Madaba are known for their midnight masses. These services are often held in Arabic, but some churches offer services in English or have translations available.

During the day, families gather for a festive meal, and it's common for friends and neighbors to visit each other's homes to exchange holiday greetings and sweets.

Decorations and Festive Hotspots

While Jordan may not be as extensively decorated as some countries during the Christmas season, certain areas are known for their festive displays. In Amman, the neighborhoods of Sweifieh and Abdoun often feature lights and decorations, creating a cheerful atmosphere. The Christmas markets in these areas are also worth visiting for their array of local crafts and holiday treats.

Additionally, the Boulevard in Abdali becomes a hub of holiday activity, with its modern outdoor shopping and entertainment complex offering a variety of seasonal festivities.

As the holiday season unfolds in Jordan, expats and digital nomads will find a warm and welcoming environment. While the celebrations may differ from what they're accustomed to, the opportunity to experience Jordan's unique blend of traditions and hospitality is sure to make for a memorable holiday. From the festive foods to the communal gatherings, Christmas and New Year's in Jordan provide a chance to embrace new customs while enjoying the spirit of the season.