Holidays & Celebrations
Can I take my kids to see Christmas lights?
Yes, in most cases you can take your kids to see Christmas lights. It is sightseeing, not worship. Skip alcohol and religious rituals and plan for prayer.
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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
Can I take my kids to a Christmas pantomime?
It depends on the show: most pantomimes are comic fairy tales with no worship, but check the humour. Here is what Muslim parents should look out for.
Holidays & Celebrations
Can I sing Happy Birthday as a Muslim?
Yes, in most cases you can sing Happy Birthday as a Muslim. It's a kind greeting with no ritual, though scholars differ on birthdays and music.
Holidays & Celebrations
Can I make New Year's resolutions as a Muslim?
Yes, you can make New Year's resolutions as a Muslim. Set goals with a good intention, keep them small and steady, and rely on Allah to help you.
Holidays & Celebrations
Can I host Christmas dinner for my non-Muslim family?
Yes, many scholars allow you to host Christmas dinner for your non-Muslim family. Serve halal food and no alcohol, and skip the festival decorations.
Holidays & Celebrations
Can I help cook Christmas dinner for my family?
Yes, you can help cook Christmas dinner for your family. Do the sides, desserts and a halal main; avoid cooking or tasting pork and wine for others.
Holidays & Celebrations
Can I go to an engagement party as a Muslim?
Yes, in most cases you can go to an engagement party as a guest. Congratulate the couple, check food and drinks and keep to your own limits.
Holidays & Celebrations
Can I go to a work holiday party without drinking?
Yes, you can go to a work holiday party without drinking. Stick to soft drinks, leave before heavy drinking starts and answer questions kindly.
Holidays & Celebrations
Can I go to a work happy hour if I don't drink?
It depends: many scholars allow a short visit to a work happy hour if you don't drink, but a pub night is best avoided. Here is how to handle it.
Holidays & Celebrations
Can I go to a wedding reception where alcohol is served?
It depends: scholars differ on wedding receptions with alcohol. If you go, drink nothing, sit away from the bar, skip the toast and leave early.
Holidays & Celebrations
Can I go to a retirement or farewell party at work?
Yes, you can go to a coworker's retirement or farewell party. Say thank you, check the food and, at a pub, stay short with a soft drink.
Holidays & Celebrations
Can I go to a Hindu wedding as a Muslim?
It depends: some scholars allow attending a Hindu wedding as a polite guest if you don't join the fire rituals or prayers. Dress modestly.
