When Is Christmas? The Origin of Christmas

Christmas (Noel, Christmas) is one of the most significant cultural and religious celebrations in the world, carrying messages of hope, love, and togetherness. This special occasion is not only solemnly observed but also serves as a time for people to share their best wishes and meaningful moments with one another.
So where does Christmas originate, how is it celebrated, and how can visitors fully enjoy the festive atmosphere in the heart of the capital?

Join Hanoi Larosa Hotel as we explore the history and profound meaning of Christmas, and prepare for a peaceful and memorable holiday season through this article.

I. The Origins and Unique Names of Christmas

1. Core Religious Meaning

Christmas, also known as The Nativity, commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, Judea. This event is considered the foundation of Christian faith, symbolizing God’s love and salvation bestowed upon humanity. Originally, Christmas was a highly sacred and ceremonial occasion, regarded as one of the most important religious observances in the Christian liturgical year.

2. Understanding the Common Names of Christmas

Christmas
The term originates from Old English, combining “Christ” and “Mass”, meaning the Mass of Christ.

Noel / Xmas

• Noel comes from the French word Noël, which is believed to be derived from Emmanuel, a Hebrew term meaning “God is with us.”
• Xmas uses the letter “X”, which represents the Greek letter Chi (Χ), the first letter in Christos (Χριστός), the Greek name for Christ.

3. From a Religious Observance to a Global Cultural Festival

Over the centuries, Christmas has gradually extended beyond its religious origins. Through cultural exchange, it merged with Western winter traditions and evolved into a global cultural celebration. Today, Christmas is widely associated with sparkling symbols such as Christmas trees, wreaths, greeting cards, and especially the beloved image of Santa Claus, bringing joy and gifts to people of all ages.

II. When Is Christmas Celebrated? The Difference Between Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Although Christmas is officially observed on December 25, celebrations are traditionally divided into two important moments:

1. Christmas Eve (December 24) – The Beginning of the Festive Season

According to ancient Jewish tradition, a new day begins at sunset rather than at midnight. Therefore, Christmas celebrations often start on the evening of December 24, known as Christmas Eve.

Christmas Eve attracts large crowds, including both Christians and non-Christians, who gather at churches to celebrate. It is an evening filled with joy, anticipation, and festive spirit.

In Christian families and parishes, Christmas Eve is also the time to set up and decorate the Nativity scene, featuring the Baby Jesus, the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, and surrounding figures such as the Three Wise Men and angels.

2. Christmas Day (December 25) – The Heart of the Celebration

December 25 marks the official celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. On this day, believers attend formal religious services at churches, followed by family gatherings, reunions, and warm festive meals shared together.

Christmas in 2025
In 2025, Christmas Eve will fall on Wednesday, December 24, and Christmas Day will be on Thursday, December 25. This period is an ideal time for visitors to stay in Hanoi and enjoy the vibrant year-end atmosphere of the capital.

III. The Profound Humanistic Meaning of Christmas

1. Remembrance and Family Reunions

Christmas is a precious time for family members to reunite after a busy year. Families decorate their homes, prepare festive meals, and share stories, joys, and reflections together. Family bonding remains one of the core values of this meaningful celebration.

2. The Spirit of Giving and Compassion

Christmas represents generosity, kindness, and sharing. Exchanging Christmas gifts is not merely a tradition but a heartfelt gesture expressing care, love, and gratitude toward others.

3. Childhood Magic and Hope

For children, Christmas is a season of magic and dreams. They eagerly await Santa Claus, hoping to receive their most cherished gifts. This anticipation creates a beautiful sense of wonder, nurturing imagination and hope. Many adults also continue this tradition, holding onto small gifts as a way to preserve innocence and optimism in life.

IV. A Memorable Christmas Experience at Hanoi Larosa Hotel

With its prime location in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hanoi Larosa Hotel is proud to offer guests a peaceful and fulfilling festive season.

An Ideal Check-in Spot

The hotel lobby at 36 Nguyen Khuyen Street is beautifully decorated with a tall Christmas tree, warm golden lights, and unique festive displays. It is the perfect place for guests to check in and capture unforgettable holiday photos with family and friends.

Cozy Comfort in the Old Quarter

Enjoy a warm holiday stay at our 3-star hotel, where guests can relax in a tranquil atmosphere, escape daily hustle and bustle, and still easily immerse themselves in the lively Christmas spirit of the capital.

A Prime Location for the Festive Season

From Hanoi Larosa Hotel, guests can easily reach:

• St. Joseph’s Cathedral – the most iconic venue for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day celebrations in Hanoi.
• Hoan Kiem Lake and the Pedestrian Streets – vibrant hubs for cultural activities, street performances, and festive events during Christmas and the year-end season.

Hanoi Larosa Hotel sincerely wishes you and your family a peaceful, joyful, and memorable Christmas filled with happiness and wonderful moments.
Contact us today to reserve your stay and experience the festive season in the heart of Hanoi.

• Telephone: (+84) 243 747 1155
• Email: info@hanoilarosahotel.com
• Website: www.hanoilarosahotel.com 
• Fanpage: www.facebook.com/hanoilarosahotel
• Address: 36 Nguyễn Khuyến, Hà Nội, Việt Nam.