Holidays & Celebrations
What should I do if someone gives me alcohol as a gift?
In most cases, thank them warmly, then pour the alcohol away or hand it back. Do not drink, sell or regift it. Here is how to do it kindly.
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Holidays & Celebrations
Christmas, birthdays, Thanksgiving and other celebrations with non-Muslim family and friends. Short, honest answers for new Muslims.
Holidays & Celebrations
What should I bring to a holiday party as a Muslim?
Yes, bring a small gift or a dish to share. Sweets, fruit, flowers or tea are good halal-friendly choices; skip alcohol, pork and gelatin.
Holidays & Celebrations
What if my family serves pork at the holiday table?
In most cases you can stay at the table. Sitting near pork is not eating it; protect your plate, skip food it touched and bring a dish of your own.
Holidays & Celebrations
What do I tell coworkers who ask why I skip Christmas?
Usually one or two friendly sentences are enough when coworkers ask why you skip Christmas. Say it is not part of your faith and keep the mood light.
Holidays & Celebrations
What can I eat at Christmas dinner if the meat isn't halal?
Usually, quite a lot: veg, fish, sides and dessert. Ham is never allowed and turkey is debated. See what to eat at Christmas dinner without halal meat.
Holidays & Celebrations
What can I do on Christmas Day as a new Muslim?
Yes, there is plenty to do on Christmas Day as a new Muslim: visit family, volunteer, walk outdoors and pray, without feeling left out.
Holidays & Celebrations
Is Thanksgiving stuffing and gravy halal?
It depends on the recipe. Plain stuffing is fine, but pork sausage, bacon and non-halal broth are common in stuffing and gravy, so ask what went in.
Holidays & Celebrations
Is eggnog halal?
It depends: traditional eggnog has rum, brandy or bourbon, so it is not halal, but alcohol-free eggnog is usually fine. Always check the label.
Holidays & Celebrations
Is birthday cake halal?
Yes, birthday cake is usually halal if it has no gelatin, lard or alcohol. Check the label, ask the host, and enjoy a slice at a friend's party.
Holidays & Celebrations
Is April Fools' Day haram?
It depends on the joke: the day isn't religious, but lying and frightening people are haram. Harmless wordplay and gentle surprises are fine.
Holidays & Celebrations
How do I politely decline a holiday party invitation?
Usually a short, warm message is enough to politely decline a holiday party invitation. Thank them, say you can't come and suggest another meet-up.
Holidays & Celebrations
How do I leave a party to pray without being rude?
Yes, you can leave a party to pray without being rude. Say you need a few minutes, find a quiet corner and pray on time. Here are kind words to use.
