By Toyin Adeniyi
The birth of a child over two thousand years ago seems to have changed the course of humanity forever. Though the exact date remains uncertain, every December, people—young and old, black and white, Christian and non-Christian—come together to mark Christmas.
For some, it is a sacred reminder of the arrival of Jesus Christ; for others, it is simply a season of joy, feasting, and togetherness. In today’s world, the holiday has stretched far beyond the walls of the church. Muslims, atheists, and people of other faiths also join in, not necessarily to honor Christ, but to share in the festivities.
The Origin of Christmas
Christmas, from the phrase “Christ’s Mass,” is observed on December 25th to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. The Bible never recorded His exact birthday, but early church leaders in the 4th century fixed the date to overlap with Roman pagan festivals such as Saturnalia and solstice celebrations.
This allowed new Christian converts to transition smoothly while retaining a festive season. Over centuries, the celebration grew, blending biblical themes with cultural practices, from nativity plays to decorated trees, forming the Christmas we know today.
Christmas Around the World
Though its roots are deeply Christian, Christmas has grown into a global festival that takes on the flavor of each culture. In Europe, the holiday is marked by glowing markets, steaming mugs of mulled wine, and choirs singing carols in town squares.
Across the Atlantic in the United States, families gather around brightly lit trees, children hang stockings in anticipation of Santa Claus, and shopping malls buzz with activity.
Meanwhile, the Philippines is known for hosting the world’s longest Christmas season, with celebrations beginning as early as September and culminating in dazzling lantern festivals and dawn masses.
In Ethiopia, the holiday called Genna, is observed on January 7th, blending solemn fasting with joyful church services and a traditional game that resembles hockey.
Even in places with only small Christian populations, such as Japan, the season has found its footing with, people celebrating with sparkling lights, romantic dates, and, curiously, fried chicken, thanks to a decades-old KFC marketing campaign.
Together, these traditions show how Christmas has transcended religion, becoming not just a Christian holy day but a shared cultural event that unites people across continents.
The Nigerian Christmas Experience
In Nigeria, Christmas is more than a holiday it’s a homecoming. Cities empty out as people travel to their hometowns. Families reunite, churches are filled with carols, and communities organize parties.
Food takes center stage: jollof rice, fried rice, chicken, goat meat, and stews line tables, while children look forward to their “Christmas clothes.”
But it’s not just about feasting. The season also inspires generosity. Many families visit orphanages, give to neighbors, or host open feasts where anyone can share in the meal. In some communities, masquerades and cultural dances add color to the celebration, blending faith with tradition. In Nigeria, Christmas is less about snowflakes and Santa hats, and more about family, faith, and fellowship.
Should Christians Celebrate Christmas?
Some Christians question the celebration, noting its non-biblical origins and heavy commercialization. Others see it as an opportunity to reflect on the incarnation of Christ and to share His love. The truth is, Christmas today isn’t just about Christ—it’s a mix of spirituality, culture, and commerce. For many, the season has become more about fun and festivity than worship.
Has Christmas Lost Its True Purpose?
The heart of Christmas was once clear: the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, a moment that symbolized humility, love, and salvation. But over the centuries, the meaning has become blurred.
Today, for many, Christmas is less about the manger in Bethlehem and more about malls, decorations, and entertainment. The holiday has been swept into the current of commercialization—where sales, discounts, and profit margins often take center stage. Shops begin decorating as early as October, not to inspire worship, but to drive consumer frenzy.
Even within families, the emphasis has shifted. Children often equate Christmas with new clothes and presents under the tree, while adults focus on cooking elaborate meals or traveling home. These traditions, though joyous, sometimes overshadow the spiritual reflection that was meant to define the season.
What’s more, Christmas has expanded beyond Christianity itself. In Nigeria and elsewhere, Muslims, atheists, and people of other faiths participate—not necessarily to honor Christ, but to join the atmosphere of joy, music, and festivity.
On one hand, this shows how powerfully Christmas unites humanity across boundaries of faith and culture. On the other, it raises the question: if everyone can celebrate Christmas without acknowledging its original intent, has it become just another cultural festival rather than a sacred holy day?
Yet, despite these shifts, the essence of Christmas still lingers for those willing to pause. In every act of kindness, every gift to the needy, and every family gathering that emphasizes love over luxury, the deeper meaning shines through. Perhaps the true purpose of Christmas is not lost, but hidden—waiting for each generation to rediscover it amidst the glitter, the shopping, and the noise.
Christmas has traveled centuries, shaped by faith and culture, embraced by people of all beliefs. In Nigeria, it’s a season of reunion and abundance; globally, it’s a holiday that transcends religion. Whether celebrated for Christ or for cheer, the season remains a powerful reminder of humanity’s shared desire for joy, kindness, and connection.
Perhaps the truest way to celebrate Christmas isn’t in the lights, meals, or even the gifts, but in living out its timeless message: love, generosity, and hope for all.