Do Mormons Celebrate Christmas?

Do Mormons celebrate Christmas? The short answer is a resounding yes. 

However, because the theology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often referred to as Mormons) differs from mainstream Christianity, many people are often confused about where the group stands on traditional holidays.

I once mentioned to a Christian friend that Mormons identify as Christians. He hesitated, rejecting the notion immediately. While he couldn't pinpoint exactly why, the sentiment is common. Mainstream Christianity often distances itself from Mormonism due to differing truth claims and the rejection of orthodox creeds like the traditional concept of the Trinity.

Because of this theological divide, a natural question arises: If their theology is different, do their holidays differ, too?

Let’s explore who Mormons are, what they believe, and how they approach the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Who Are "Mormons"?

"Mormon" is a nickname often used for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This movement began in the 19th century in the United States, led by its founding prophet, Joseph Smith.

To understand their approach to Christmas, you must first understand their core identity. Members of the Church believe in the Bible (to the extent it is translated correctly), but they also believe in additional scripture, including:

• The Book of Mormon
• The Doctrine and Covenants
• The Pearl of Great Price

The Core Beliefs

Do Mormons believe in Jesus? Absolutely. They believe in God the Father, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost.

However, they reject the Nicene Creed’s definition of the Trinity (the idea that the three are one substance). Instead, they believe the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are three distinct beings united in purpose. This distinction is often why other denominations classify them separately, but Latter-day Saints maintain that their faith is centered entirely on the redemption and atonement of Jesus Christ.

What Do Mormons Think of Other Christians?

When you hear mainstream Christians label Mormons as non-Christian, it is easy to assume the animosity is mutual. However, the perspective from the inside is different.

Latter-day Saints generally view themselves as members of the restored Church of Jesus Christ; meaning they believe they possess the fullness of the gospel that was lost during the "Great Apostasy" following the death of the biblical apostles.

While they believe other denominations may lack the full priesthood authority or correct doctrine, they do not view other Christians as enemies. They generally believe that all sincere followers of Christ are striving to do good. 

In fact, during the Christmas season, this shared love for Jesus often bridges the theological gap, bringing these differing groups together to celebrate the Savior.

Do Mormons Celebrate Christmas?

Yes, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints celebrate Christmas enthusiastically.

For Latter-day Saints, Christmas is one of the most significant holidays of the year. You will find them engaging in many familiar traditions:

• Setting up Christmas trees and lights.
• Exchanging gifts.
• Reading the biblical account of Jesus's birth in Luke 2.
• Singing traditional Christmas carols (and some unique hymns).

The Question of the Date: December 25 vs. April 6

While Mormons join the rest of the world in celebrating on December 25, there is a unique theological nuance regarding the actual date of Christ's birth.

Many Latter-day Saints believe that Jesus was actually born on April 6. This belief stems from Doctrine and Covenants 20:1, which references the organization of the modern Church on April 6, 1830, as being "one thousand eight hundred and thirty years since the coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the flesh."

Because of this scripture, April 6 is a significant date for the faith:

• It is widely accepted by members as the Savior's actual birthday.
• It marks the official founding of the Church in 1830.
• It is often the date of their "General Conference," a major biannual gathering.

So, does this mean they ignore December 25?

Not at all. While they may acknowledge April 6 as the historical date of birth, they fully embrace December 25 as the day to celebrate that birth. They view the specific calendar date as less important than the act of honoring the Savior of the world.

Conclusion: A Shared Celebration

Do Mormons celebrate Christmas? Yes. They may have unique scriptures and distinct views on the nature of the Godhead, but their focus during the Christmas season is identical to that of other Christians: celebrating the child who was born, the Son who was given, and the Prince of Peace who brought salvation to mankind.

Regardless of theological debates, the acknowledgment of Jesus Christ as the hero of the Christmas story is something both groups share.

Frequently Asked Questions ​Do Latter-day Saints celebrate Christmas? Yes. Despite theological differences with other denominations, they fully celebrate Christmas on December 25th with gifts, trees, and a focus on the biblical account of Christ's birth. ​Do Mormons believe Jesus was born on December 25? Historically, no. Most Latter-day Saints believe Jesus was born on April 6 based on modern revelation. However, they join the rest of the world in observing December 25th as the day of celebration. ​Do Mormons believe in Santa Claus? Yes. The Church has no official stance on Santa, but most families embrace the tradition as a fun, cultural part of the holiday alongside the religious focus on Jesus. ​Do Mormons decorate with Christmas trees? Yes. You will find Christmas trees, lights, and wreaths in Mormon homes and churches. The Church itself displays millions of Christmas lights at Temple Square in Salt Lake City every year. ​Do Mormons drink alcohol at Christmas parties? No. Observant Latter-day Saints abstain from alcohol, coffee, and tea year-round. Holiday celebrations typically feature non-alcoholic drinks like hot chocolate, cider, or punch.