Days Until Christmas Eve

Thursday, December 24, 2026

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Thursday, December 24, 2026

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When Is Christmas Eve 2026?

Christmas Eve 2026 falls on Thursday, December 24. For many families, Christmas Eve is as magical as Christmas Day itself — it's the night of Santa's journey, candlelight church services, opening one special gift, and the final sleep before Christmas morning.

Christmas Eve Traditions

Hanging stockings by the fireplace
Leaving cookies and milk for Santa
Reading "'Twas the Night Before Christmas"
Attending a candlelight church service
Opening one gift on Christmas Eve
Driving to see neighborhood Christmas lights
Watching a holiday movie as a family

Christmas Eve 2026 Quick Facts

Date: Thursday, December 24, 2026
Also Known As: Heiligabend (Germany), Nochebuena (Spain), Réveillon (France)
NORAD Santa Tracker: Goes live the evening of December 24th

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is Christmas Eve a federal holiday?

No, Christmas Eve is not a federal holiday in the United States, but many employers give the day off or close early. Christmas Day (December 25) is the federal holiday.

What time does Santa come?

According to NORAD's Santa Tracker, Santa begins his journey from the International Date Line and arrives at homes after children fall asleep. Track him live at noradsanta.org on December 24th!