Can I still celebrate New Year's Eve as a Muslim?
It depends on which scholars you follow and how you celebrate. Many scholars say the new calendar year isn't a religious holiday, so a quiet family evening or watching fireworks is fine. Others say Muslims have only two festivals and shouldn't celebrate any other. Everyone agrees that parties with alcohol, kissing at midnight and mixed nightlife aren't allowed.
The view that allows a simple celebration
Many contemporary scholars point out that January 1st is a civil date, used in business, schools and governments worldwide. Marking it with family, a nice dinner or watching fireworks isn't worship. They allow it as long as nothing haram is involved.
The view that forbids it
When the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ came to Medina, people had two festival days. He said: "Allah has substituted for them something better than them, the day of sacrifice and the day of the breaking of the fast" (Sunan Abi Dawud 1134).
Based on this, some scholars say Muslims should only celebrate Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, and not adopt other annual festivals. If you follow this view, you can simply treat December 31st like any other night.
What everyone agrees to avoid
- Champagne toasts and alcohol.
- The "midnight kiss" with someone you're not married to.
- Clubs, mixed parties and staying out where things get out of hand.
- Missing Isha or Fajr because of the late night.
New Year's resolutions
Setting goals is a great habit in Islam. Many Muslims use the new year, or the Islamic new year in Muharram, to reflect: Am I praying on time? Am I reading Quran? How can I be kinder? Self-reflection at any time of year is encouraged.
With non-Muslim family
If your family celebrates, you can join the dinner, enjoy their company and say "Happy New Year" according to many scholars, while skipping the drinks and leaving before the party gets wild. For similar questions, see Can I celebrate my birthday after becoming Muslim? and Can I still go to Halloween parties as a Muslim?
- Scholars differ on marking the new year.
- Many allow a quiet, halal family evening.
- Alcohol, midnight kisses and nightlife are off-limits.
- Reflection and goal-setting are encouraged anytime.
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