Christmas in 2026: what to say and how to respond to congratulations

At the beginning of the new year, millions of people around the world are preparing for one of the brightest and kindest holidays — Christmas. This day unites families, fills homes with warmth, and fills hearts with hope for the best. In 2026, Christmas will once again be an occasion for sincere congratulations and warm words, because it is precisely the right phrases that help bring joy to relatives, friends and colleagues. What words sound appropriate, what to respond to Christmas greetings and what traditions to observe — in the material of Izvestia.

Christmas: the history of the holiday

Christmas is one of the oldest and most profound Christian holidays, celebrated in memory of the birth of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, in Bethlehem. According to the gospel narrative, the Virgin Mary and her husband Joseph arrived in Bethlehem to participate in the census conducted by order of the Roman Emperor Augustus. Due to the large influx of people, they could not find a place in the hotel and were forced to stay in a cave where cattle were usually kept. It was there that the baby Jesus was born, symbolizing humility, purity and a new reliable path to the salvation of mankind.

The first miracles are also connected with the birth of Christ. First, angels announced the good news to the shepherds, then the magi from the East came, led by the Star of Bethlehem. They brought gifts to the Baby: gold as a king, frankincense as a God, and myrrh as a man who was about to suffer. These events formed the basis of many Christmas symbols and traditions that have survived to this day.

After the birth of Christ, the holy family had to leave Bethlehem in a hurry: King Herod, fearing the loss of power, ordered the extermination of all Bethlehem babies. The family fled to Egypt, where they remained until Herod's death, thereby fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies and emphasizing the uniqueness of Christ's mission.

Initially, Christmas was not a separate holiday — the early Christian Church celebrated it together with the Epiphany on January 6. Only since the fourth century, under the influence of Western traditions, the holiday moved to December 25, which is also associated with an attempt to contrast the birth of Christ with the pagan Roman celebrations of the winter solstice. In Russia, Christmas began to be celebrated on a large scale after the country's baptism in the 10th century, closely intertwined with ancient winter rituals, Yuletide and folk customs.

At all times, the basis of Christmas for Christians has been not only the memory of the event, but also spiritual renewal, the desire for reconciliation, mercy and goodness. Therefore, the holiday was always accompanied not only by solemn worship, but also by caring for others, generous tables, carols and mutual congratulations.

When is Christmas celebrated in 2026

In 2026, Orthodox Christmas in Russia, as usual, will be celebrated on January 7, and Christmas Eve — on the eve of January 6. This day is fully included in the New Year holidays, so congratulations and good wishes can be heard on January 6 and 7, and many continue to congratulate each other until Epiphany (January 19).

Main words and greetings for Christmas

Christmas is a holiday of special mood and sincere feelings. Traditionally, congratulations are expressed in light, warm and sincere words, avoiding formality.:

"Merry Christmas! May your home be filled with peace, happiness and love!";

"I sincerely wish you a merry Christmas, good health, fulfillment of wishes and joy for the whole year!";

"May Christ be born in your heart, giving hope and faith!"

On this day, it is important to express good wishes not only to relatives, but also to colleagues, neighbors, teachers and just acquaintances — this strengthens ties and creates a festive atmosphere.

The most powerful prayers for Christmas: which prayers to read on January 7 at home and in church

How to respond to congratulations correctly

If someone wishes you a Merry Christmas, you should always respond with gratitude.:

"Thank you! Merry Christmas to you too, may this day bring you health and well—being!";

"Thank you for the congratulations, both of you — may all the brightest things come true in your life!";

"I wish you joy, peace and kindness too!"

It is traditional for Orthodox Christians to repeat or slightly change the congratulatory phrase, complementing it with a personal wish for health, peace, and well-being in the family. In official and business circles, one can add: "May the coming year be successful and fruitful for you and your loved ones!"

The forms of congratulations that have a more pronounced religious context are also correct.:

"Christ is being born — praise him!";

"Merry Christmas!";

"Peace, love and joy to your home these days!"

In response, you can also use phrases that emphasize the bright atmosphere: "Glory to Christ!", "Truly, Christ was born!", "And to you — a bright and joyful Christmas!".

On Christmas Day, it is welcome to address even unfamiliar people with good wishes. Don't use cliched, overly businesslike phrases — focus on personal involvement and warmth. It is important to remember that Christmas greetings should be filled with sincere hope, carry a message of kindness and support.