Topic

Holidays & Celebrations

Christmas, birthdays, Thanksgiving and other celebrations with non-Muslim family and friends. Short, honest answers for new Muslims.

Are Christmas sweets and candy canes halal?

Yes, many are. Plain candy canes are usually halal; check Christmas treats for gelatin, alcohol, lard, suet and carmine (E120).

Yes, in most cases. Family game time is halal; avoid betting, fortune-telling and crude games. Scholars differ on dice games like Monopoly.

It depends on the relative. Parents, siblings, aunts and uncles are fine; cousins and in-laws of the opposite gender aren't. Greet them warmly.

Yes, staying with your parents for Christmas is a way of honoring them. Plan prayer, Fajr, halal food, hijab and Christmas morning ahead.

Yes, you can pray anywhere clean in your parents' home. Here's how to fit short winter prayer times around holiday meals.

It depends. Never drink or serve alcohol, and many scholars say don't sit where it's passed around. Some allow family events; here's a plan.

No, you don't have to drink, even for a toast. How to say no kindly when family pushes alcohol at holiday dinners.

It depends, but most scholars say skip dishes made with wine or spirits. Here's where alcohol hides in Christmas food and how to ask.

Yes, many scholars allow Christmas dinner with non-Muslim parents. Skip grace to Jesus, toasts, pork and alcohol, and keep the family close.

No, most scholars say don't attend the Christmas Eve service. Some allow silent presence for family; never join worship. Kind alternatives here.

It depends, but most scholars advise against it: midnight mass is the festival's main worship. Kind alternatives for family.

Scholars differ. Many allow a quiet family evening; all say avoid alcohol, midnight kisses and nightlife. Here's what to know.