Christmas Day 2025
Date: December 25, 2025 (Thursday)
Country: The Gambia Public Holidays
Description
Christmas Day in The Gambia is a national public holiday held on December 25 every year. It marks the day Christians remember the birth of Jesus Christ and is observed across the country by many people.
For Christians the day is a time of faith and reflection. It reminds people of hope, kindness, and the idea of peace among families and neighbors in Gambian communities.
The holiday is important because The Gambia is a multi faith country. Having Christmas as a public holiday shows respect for religious diversity and allows people of all backgrounds to pause and recognize different beliefs.
On this day government offices and many businesses close so people can spend time with family and friends. Schools and workplaces often give people the chance to attend services or community gatherings.
Christmas Day also has social meaning beyond religion. It is a moment for people to show compassion, help others, and strengthen bonds within neighborhoods across The Gambia.
Traditions
On Christmas Day in The Gambia people often attend church services and midnight mass. Families sing carols and take part in nativity plays. Towns sometimes have small processions with drums and praise music after services.
Homes are decorated with lights and simple trees when possible. People dress in their best clothes to visit relatives and friends. Gift giving is modest and often homemade treats are shared among neighbors to show goodwill.
Food is central to celebrations. Common dishes include benachin or jollof rice, stewed chicken or fish, and peanut stew called domoda. Fresh fruit and sweet pastries finish the meal.
Community charity and visiting the elderly are common. Celebrations blend Christian rituals with local Gambian music and hospitality.
Travel Tips
Many shops, banks and government offices close on Christmas Day. Plan ahead for cash, medicine and transport. Expect fewer taxis and some restaurants closed. Major hotels and tourist spots may run special events that need reservations early in the day.
Use daylight for travel and tours, especially beaches and nature parks. Stay in groups at night and keep belongings secure. Join a hotel or community event to celebrate safely and meet locals. Bring extra supplies so plans are not ruined by closures.