Bahrain's Christmas: A Unique Cultural Celebration

Bahrain is a predominantly Muslim country, but it is also known for its religious tolerance and respect for other faiths. This means that Christmas is celebrated in the country, though only in private. There are over 80 Christian families living in the Kingdom of Bahrain, and 16 churches, with three more planning to open in Manama. While Christmas is not a public holiday, Christians are allowed to celebrate their own religious holidays. During the festive period, there are numerous events and celebrations, including carol singing, markets, and concerts. Hotels and restaurants also get involved, offering Christmas meals and hosting events.

Christmas trees and decorations

Although Christmas trees are not a common sight in Bahrain, they can still be found in some places. Bahrain is a predominantly Muslim country, but it is known for its religious tolerance and respect for other faiths. This tolerance extends to Christmas celebrations, which are enjoyed by the small but significant Christian population in the country.

Christmas trees in Bahrain are typically artificial and decorated with lights. They can be found in malls, such as The Avenues Mall, Shopping Malls in Seef and Juffair, and some hotels, like the Hyatt Regency. These trees are usually smaller in size, standing at 6 to 8 feet tall.

In addition to the trees, Bahrain's streets, buildings, and shopping centres are adorned with colourful lights and decorations during the Christmas season, creating a festive atmosphere. The Seef Mall, Dragon Mall, Bahrain Mall, and The Lagoons Mall are popular spots to find Christmas decorations and gifts. The malls feature a wide variety of global brands, offering everything from electronics to luxury fashion and Christmas ornaments.

For those looking to purchase their own Christmas trees, companies like SAM provide great deals. They offer plastic trees with colourful pixie lights, standing at 6 to 8 feet tall, and even provide free delivery to your doorstep.

The Christmas celebrations in Bahrain showcase a unique blend of Western and local traditions, with lights, decorations, and trees playing a significant role in spreading the holiday cheer.

Christmas meals and brunches

Christmas is a wonderful time to be in Bahrain, with its unique blend of cultures and traditions. The country is known for its religious tolerance and respect for other faiths, so it's a welcoming place for Christians and people of all backgrounds during the festive period.

Bahrain offers a plethora of Christmas meals and brunches, giving you a taste of holiday favourites and local specialties. Here is a list of some of the best Christmas dining experiences in Bahrain:

Bahrain Bay Kitchen

Bahrain Bay Kitchen offers a Christmas buffet brunch featuring festive favourites such as turkey, wagyu beef, and orange-glazed barbary duck. You can also enjoy live music and a visit from Santa Claus.

CUT by Wolfgang Puck

Indulge in an exquisite American-European festive menu crafted from the best ingredients from around the world at CUT by Wolfgang Puck. Ladies even get a free house beverage package!

La Med

La Med hosts an exclusive Christmas brunch featuring live stations inspired by Christmas traditions, along with live entertainment and a visit from Santa.

Attic

Attic offers a Greek-style Christmas brunch in a gorgeous setting with live festive tunes.

Indigo

Celebrate Christmas Eve at Indigo with a performance by singer Mo Zowayed and a delicious four-course festive set menu. On Christmas Day, they offer another fantastic dining experience with live music on their gorgeous rooftop.

Sofitel Bahrain

Sofitel Bahrain hosts a grand festive brunch spread across three restaurants: Saraya, Fiamma, and Rivaj. Enjoy international delicacies, Christmas carollers, and live musicians. There's also a special pop-up, a puppet show, and a visit from Santa for the kids.

Cantina Kahlo

Enjoy a five-course festive menu with traditional Mexican favourites within a vibrant and colourful setting at Cantina Kahlo.

Plums

Celebrate Christmas at this award-winning steakhouse with a four-course menu filled with josper-grilled meats.

Primavera

Experience the holiday spirit in a traditional Italian setting with a four-course set menu at Primavera.

Nirvana

Enjoy a royal Indian feast at Nirvana, featuring a delicious four-course set menu full of Indian classics.

Dilmun Club Bahrain

Dilmun Club Bahrain offers a delightful Christmas Day Brunch with a scrumptious buffet featuring traditional roasted turkey, honey-glazed ham, and mouthwatering desserts. Enjoy live entertainment in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Crowne Plaza Bahrain

Crowne Plaza Bahrain presents a festive Christmas brunch, bringing together the finest culinary delights to make your Christmas Day special.

Dragon Hotel & Resort Bahrain

On Christmas Day, Dragon Hotel & Resort Bahrain transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with enchanting decorations and live holiday music. Immerse yourself in a gourmet experience with your family and friends.

The Village, Downtown Rotana

Enjoy live entertainment, food stations, games, and a kids' corner, all topped off with a visit from Santa at The Village, Downtown Rotana.

Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain

Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain is perfect for a date night or family gathering. Enjoy delicious food and drinks, along with festive music, and capture memories with photos.

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

Get ready for the festive season at Four Seasons, which offers a Christmas market, festive afternoon tea, Martesana Panettone, and Casino Royale.

Le Meridien – Westin

Le Meridien – Westin hosts a Christmas market and a gingerbread-making workshop for kids. They also offer a chill Christmas Brunch on December 25th.

Vida Beach Resort Bahrain

Vida Beach Resort Bahrain has you covered if you're looking for Santa or a Festive Brunch. They host a fantastic Christmas brunch and a Santa Soiree.

Al Areen Palace & Spa

Al Areen Palace & Spa presents an exquisite Christmas four-course dinner menu at Momento Restaurant and Terrace. Kids below 6 dine for free!

Solymar Bahrain

Solymar Bahrain offers a Christmas Day Brunch with delectable holiday delicacies and music by Non Grata & Chris Child. Kids below 6 dine for free, and kids from 6-12 years dine for a discounted price.

Church services

Bahrain is a predominantly Muslim country, but it is known for its religious tolerance and respect for other faiths. The country has a small but significant Christian population that is allowed to openly celebrate Christmas. There are 16 churches in the country, including the oldest one in the Gulf region, and three more are planning to open in Manama.

On Christmas Eve, various churches in Bahrain host celebrations where hundreds of Christians from different communities gather to pray for peace and express their gratitude for the tolerance they experience in the country. These communal prayer sessions are open to everyone, providing an opportunity to participate and enjoy the Christmas spirit.

While Christmas is not a public holiday in Bahrain, Christians are free to celebrate privately and openly. They can attend church services, spend time with their families, or organise modest gatherings with friends. The atmosphere is welcoming, and people from all religious backgrounds can appreciate the spirit of togetherness.

Expatriate and Bahraini Christians who wish to celebrate Christmas by attending church services have several options available to them. With multiple churches in the country and more planned, they can mark the occasion with prayer and gratitude in a warm and inclusive environment.

Christmas markets

Although Christmas is not a public holiday in Bahrain, the country's spirit of tolerance and openness towards other religions means that Christmas is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Bahrain's Christmas markets are a testament to this, offering a unique blend of Western and local traditions.

Le Meridien – Westin

Le Meridien – Westin hosts a Christmas market with a variety of items for shoppers looking to get into the festive spirit. They also offer a gingerbread-making workshop for those who want to get creative with their kids.

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

The Four Seasons Hotel offers a Christmas market, festive afternoon tea, and a variety of other festive events and activities.

The Lagoons Mall

The Lagoons Mall is an entertainment centre with plenty of shopping and leisure options. It's a great spot for last-minute Christmas shopping, offering everything from Christmas trees and lights to wreaths and other holiday ornaments.

Seef Mall

Seef Mall, Bahrain's first mall, is a shopper's paradise with over 370 outlets and 55 restaurants. It's sure to have something for everyone, including Christmas gifts and decorations.

Dragon Mall Bahrain

Dragon Mall is the largest shopping complex in Bahrain, with over 787 commercial units. It's a great spot for wholesale shopping and finding unique Chinese products.

Bahrain City Centre

Bahrain City Centre is one of the largest malls in Bahrain, with over 340 stores and fine dining outlets. It attracts millions of visitors each year and is sure to have something for everyone during the holiday season.

The Avenues Mall

The Avenues Mall offers a waterfront shopping experience with over 130 stores. It has a variety of brands for accessories, clothes, cosmetics, and more. It's a great spot to find Christmas decorations and ornaments.

Marina Mall

Marina Mall offers a mix of luxury shopping and entertainment, including the Magic Island play zone and cafes. It's a great place to find Christmas gifts from popular retail shops like Forever 21, H&M, and Uniqlo.

Alosra Supermarket

Alosra, meaning "the family" in Arabic, is a local and friendly supermarket offering a mix of local and international premium brands. During the Christmas season, they provide Christmas hampers and gifts, making it a convenient spot to pick up festive treats.

Christmas events and activities

Christmas in Bahrain is a joyous and festive occasion, with plenty of events and activities to get you into the holiday spirit. Here are some ideas to celebrate the season:

• Tree-Lighting Ceremonies: Witness the enchanting tree-lighting ceremonies at various locations across Bahrain, such as the annual event at Sofitel Bahrain and Elite Seef Residence & Hotel. These events often feature carol singing, festive treats, and fun activities for children.
• Christmas Markets: Stroll through charming Christmas markets, such as the one hosted by Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. You'll find unique gifts, delicious treats, and a festive atmosphere.
• Brunches and Dinners: Indulge in festive brunches and dinners at hotels and restaurants across Bahrain. From international buffets to traditional favourites, there's something for everyone. Try the InterContinental Regency Hotel, Crowne Plaza Bahrain, or Sofitel Bahrain for a grand Christmas feast.
• Gingerbread-Making Workshops: Get creative with your kids at gingerbread-making workshops, such as the one hosted by Le Meridien. It's a fun way to get into the holiday spirit and spend quality time with your family.
• Church Services: For those seeking a more religious experience, attend church services at one of the 16 churches in the country. Christians in Bahrain are free to practise their faith and celebrate Christmas openly.
• Concerts and Live Performances: Enjoy live music performances during the festive season, ranging from jazz to Broadway and opera. Keep an eye out for events hosted by organisations like The Palm Association.
• Themed Parties: Join in the fun at themed parties, such as the Santa Soiree at Vida Beach Resort Bahrain. It's a great opportunity to dress up and celebrate with friends.
• Winter Wonderland: Experience the magic of Winter Wonderland in Bahrain, with ice-skating, snowball fights, and Christmas-themed games. It's a fun-filled event for the whole family.
• Happy Hours: Unwind after a long day of celebrations at various happy hours across Bahrain. Venues like Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, The Domain Hotel & Spa, and The Crowne Plaza offer festive drinks and appetisers at discounted prices.
• Christmas Shopping: Shop for unique gifts and decorations at malls and shopping centres across Bahrain, such as The Avenues Mall, Seef Mall, and Dragon Mall. These locations embrace the holiday spirit with festive decorations and events.

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