Christmas 2025: Christmas is a favorite festival around the world. But in some countries, this is not the case at all. Here are six countries around the world where Christmas is not a popular holiday.

Countries that don't celebrate Christmas

1 /6

North Korea doesn't officially ban Christmas, but it is among the countries that don't take kindly to Christmas. As an atheist country, North Korea doesn't allow any prayer services.

2 /6

Expats in Saudi Arabia observe it in secret. Celebrations like Christmas or Halloween are not encouraged in Saudi Arabia.

3 /6

Christmas and Christianity have been banned in China since 1949. Christmas is not a national holiday in China, but people celebrate it in their own way. Due to strict regulations, no one is allowed to sing karaoke in public.

4 /6

After overthrowing the monarchy and executing Prince Charles I during the English Civil War, English military and political leader Oliver Cromwell banned Christmas altogether.

5 /6

Brunei also bans Christmas celebrations in public places. Those caught doing so can face fines and even imprisonment. Santa Claus hats, candles, religious hymns, and decorations are also prohibited.

6 /6

Tajikistan's Ministry of Education has banned Christmas trees, gift-giving, and fireworks. In 2014, the Tajik government also banned Santa Claus. Furthermore, Halloween festivals are also banned in Tajikistan.