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Calendia
Not an official holiday

Christmas Eve

237 DAYS
00 HOURS
32 MINUTES
01

Historical Context

Christmas Eve falls on 24 December every year and is not an official public holiday. Many employees work a half day or take leave for the traditional Christmas dinner.

Christmas Eve on 24 December is the evening before the Christmas festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. The tradition of exchanging gifts on Christmas Eve has its roots in medieval European Christian customs. Christmas Eve is the evening when families traditionally gather for the Christmas dinner.

On Christmas Eve, Belgian families share a traditional Christmas dinner, with dishes such as prawn croquettes, oysters, game and bûche de Noël. Children hang their Christmas stocking and go to bed early, hoping for gifts from Father Christmas. In many municipalities, a midnight mass is held and Christmas markets are well attended.

03

Frequently asked questions

Is Christmas Eve an official public holiday in Belgium?
No, 24 December (Christmas Eve) is not an official public holiday. Many people work a half day or take leave for the family celebrations in the evening.
How is Christmas Eve celebrated in Belgium?
Belgian families share a grand Christmas dinner with prawn croquettes, oysters, game and bûche de Noël. Children hang their stockings and go to bed early.
What is traditionally eaten on Christmas Eve?
The traditional Christmas menu includes prawn croquettes, oysters, game and bûche de Noël for dessert.
Are shops open on Christmas Eve?
Yes, most shops are open on 24 December, but with reduced hours (usually until 5 p.m.).

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