Christianity is an Abrahamic monotheistic religion, professing that Jesus Christ was raised from the dead and is the Son of God, whose coming as the Messiah was prophesied in the Hebrew Bible and chronicled in the New Testament. It is the world's largest and most widespread religion with over 2.38 billion followers, comprising around 31.2% of the world population. Its adherents, known as Christians, are estimated to make up a majority of the population in 157 countries and territories.
Over the years, numerous Christianity holidays have been developed, each commemorating significant events in the life of Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, saints, or other aspects of the faith.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day is one of the most widely observed and culturally significant holidays around the world. It traditionally commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, although it has also become a widely celebrated cultural holiday, often observed even by non-Christians.
Boxing Day
Boxing Day is a holiday celebrated after Christmas Day, and it is a well-known holiday primarily celebrated in the United Kingdom and other countries that were part of the British Empire, as well as in some European nations.
New Year's Eve
New Year's Eve marks the final day of the Gregorian calendar year and is a significant occasion for many people around the world. It's a time to reflect on the past year and welcome the beginning of a new one.
Epiphany
The Epiphany, often referred to as the Feast of the Three Kings or Three Kings' Day, is a Christian celebration that commemorates the visit of the Magi (also known as the Wise Men or Three Kings) to the infant Jesus.
Orthodox Christmas Day
Orthodox Christmas Day is celebrated by Orthodox Christians around the world. The difference in date from the December 25 celebration of Christmas in the Western Christian tradition arises from the use of different calendars.
Orthodox New Year
The Orthodox New Year is also known as the Old New Year. This tradition is observed in many Orthodox Christian countries and communities, particularly those that continue to follow the Julian calendar for religious celebrations.
Theophany
Theophany, celebrated primarily in Orthodox Christianity, is a feast that commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River by John the Baptist. It emphasizes the revelation of the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) at the baptism.
St. Cyril and St. Methodius Day
St. Cyril and St. Methodius Day is a feast day celebrated in honor of the Apostles to the Slavs, Saints Cyril and Methodius. It commemorates their missionary work, cultural contributions and role in spreading Christianity among the Slavic peoples. This day is significant in both Catholic and Orthodox traditions, as well as in many Slavic countries.
Shrove Monday
Shrove Monday is part of the Christian pre-Lenten period known as Shrovetide. While less well-known than Shrove Tuesday, it historically held significance in certain Christian traditions, especially in Europe and the UK.
Shrove Tuesday
Shrove Tuesday is the day before Ash Wednesday, marking the end of the pre-Lenten season known as Shrovetide. It is traditionally a day of feasting, confession and preparation for the 40-day Lenten season.