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Christmas
Vatican City

Christmas 2023, 2024 and 2025 in Vatican City

As a micro-nation headed by the Pope, it’s no surprise if Vatican City makes a big deal out of 25 December, which is a public holiday every 25 December.

YearDateDayHoliday
202325 DecMonChristmas Day
202425 DecWedChristmas Day
202525 DecThuChristmas Day
202625 DecFriChristmas Day
Please scroll down to end of page for previous years' dates.

There are many Christmas events held in Vatican City all through December, and any of the historic buildings and landmarks in the city might be a good place to visit during this time. But there are two main draws that bring thousands to Vatican City each year for Christmas.

First, there is the midnight mass with the Pope. Roman Catholics obviously find it an amazing experience to attend a mass conducted by the Pope himself.

Secondly, there is the enormously tall fir or spruce Christmas tree set up in Saint Peter’s Square. Its lights, height, and location give it a unique mystique. And it’s considered an honour to have your country be the source of this year’s “Vatican Christmas Tree”.

Finally, a life-sized nativity set is put on display each year in Saint Peter’s Square along with the Christmas tree.

Previous Years

YearDateDayHoliday
202225 DecSunChristmas Day
202125 DecSatChristmas Day
202025 DecFriChristmas Day
201925 DecWedChristmas Day
201825 DecTueChristmas Day
201725 DecMonChristmas Day