Christmas in Lebanon: 10 ways to celebrate the holidays

Spending Christmas in Lebanon offers one of the most unique, vibrant, and authentic holiday experiences available anywhere in the world. While you might initially feel skeptical about choosing the Middle East for a winter getaway, this destination bridges thousands of years of history with world-class nightlife and sophisticated cuisine. Imagine skiing in the mountains during the early morning and dining by the Mediterranean Sea at sunset, all while surrounded by ancient Christian traditions. Christmas in Lebanon is not merely a holiday; it is a full-sensory experience that combines deep historical roots with a festive spirit that refuses to be dampened.

1. Discover what makes Christmas in Lebanon unique

Christmas in Lebanon operates on a completely different frequency than the commercialized holidays often found in the West. The celebrations here are deeply rooted in Maronite Christian traditions that trace back to the early centuries of Christianity, blended seamlessly with French Mandate influences and a distinct Lebanese flair for living life to the fullest. This combination creates an atmosphere that is both spiritually profound and socially electric, offering travelers a chance to witness a holiday season that feels genuinely communal rather than purely transactional.

The climate contrast

You can literally go skiing in Faraya in the morning and have dinner al fresco by the Mediterranean coast in Batroun that same evening. The mountain resorts sit at elevations where snow is possible, while the coastal cities maintain a mild Mediterranean climate that is perfect for evening strolls. This geographic blessing creates endless itinerary possibilities that you simply cannot find in other winter destinations.

The cultural blend

What truly distinguishes the holiday here is how the Christmas in Lebanon celebration becomes a national event rather than just a sectarian one. You will see families of all faiths strolling through markets and enjoying the festive lights. The reverence for Jesus (Isa) as a prophet in Islam creates a theological bridge, but the participation is largely social—a celebration of national identity and joy. This interfaith harmony is most visible in the downtown souks and along the Corniche, where the holiday becomes a unifying force for the country.

2. Navigate safety and logistics for your trip

Travelers often worry about safety logistics, but the on-the-ground reality often diverges significantly from general advisories. Recent reports from travelers paint a nuanced picture where the Christmas tourist circuit—concentrated in Mount Lebanon, Jounieh, Byblos, Batroun, and East Beirut—remains historically stable and well-patrolled. While you must strictly avoid the southern suburbs of Beirut (Dahieh) and border regions, the typical holiday itinerary naturally steers clear of these zones.

Important Safety Note: Your biggest physical risk is often road safety. Travelers consistently warn against driving on the Beirut-Damascus highway at night due to freezing fog and poor lighting conditions.

The “fresh dollar” economy

Understanding the dual-currency economy is the single most important logistical requirement for your trip. The banking system is largely dysfunctional for international cards outside of 5-star establishments. You need to bring physical USD cash.

• Currency Condition: Bring crisp, new bills. Notes printed before 2013 or those with tears are frequently rejected by vendors.

• Denominations: Small bills ($1, $5, $10, $20) are essential for taxis, valet services, and markets.

Real costs

The tourism sector is dollarized, so do not expect rock-bottom prices.

Power and connectivity

State electricity provides only 1-2 hours per day, so when booking accommodation (especially Airbnbs), you must confirm they have “24/7 Generator” access. Hotels generally handle this seamlessly. For internet, buy a local SIM (Touch or Alfa) at the airport—mobile data is reliable in coastal cities but can be spotty in the mountains during storms.

3. Experience deep cultural traditions

Lebanese Christmas is not just Western traditions transplanted to the Middle East; it is a distinct celebration with deep Maronite roots. The nativity scene, or Maghura, often takes precedence over the Christmas tree in many homes. In Maronite tradition, Jesus is born in a cave rather than a wooden stable, which resonates with the Lebanese landscape where early Christians sought refuge in the Holy Valley (Qadisha).

The Barbara seeds tradition

The season effectively begins early in December with the Feast of Saint Barbara. Families plant seeds—wheat, lentils, chickpeas, and beans—on damp cotton wool. By the time Christmas in Lebanon arrives, these have sprouted into green shoots that are placed around the nativity to symbolize resurrection and life emerging from winter.

The Maronite Novena

The nine evenings preceding the holiday feature the Christmas Novena (Ziyyah). These services are described by travelers as thick with incense and filled with ancient Syriac-Maronite chants. The hymn Arsal Allah (God Sent His Only Son) is the sonic signature of the season. Churches in villages like Ehden and Bcharre are packed, offering a solemn yet communal atmosphere.

4. Indulge in the Lebanese food scene

If the holidays in the West smell like pine and cinnamon, here they smell of Meghli. This traditional dessert is a rice pudding spiced with caraway, cinnamon, and anise, achieving a deep earth-brown color. It is topped with desiccated coconut (representing snow) and soaked nuts.

• Pro Tip: Making authentic Meghli requires nearly an hour of continuous stirring. For the best experience, visit renowned patisseries like Hallab 1881 or Douaihy.

Le Réveillon dinner

The main event is the Christmas Eve dinner, known as Le Réveillon. The table represents a fascinating hybrid of cultures:

• The Foundation: Mezze spreads with kibbeh balls, meat pies (sambousek), vine leaves (warak enab), and tabbouleh.

• The Centerpiece: Often a roast turkey, but stuffed with Levantine spiced rice, ground meat, and chestnuts rather than bread stuffing.

• The French Touch: A Bûche de Noël is mandatory, with Beirut pastry chefs competing fiercely on presentation.

Top dining recommendations

Reservations are mandatory weeks in advance for these spots:

• Em Sherif (Ashrafieh): The gold standard for fine dining. Expect a parade of luxury mezze.

• Feniqia (Byblos): Located inside the old souk, known for avoiding tourist trap pitfalls and offering the creative “Feniqia burger.”

• Chez Maguy (Batroun): Unforgettable fresh fish dining right by the crashing Mediterranean waves.

• The Grill (Four Seasons): Prime cuts with Mediterranean views for a sophisticated celebration.

5. Explore Byblos: The ancient soul of Christmas

Byblos (Jbeil) is widely regarded as the most beautiful holiday destination in the country. Walking through the Byblos market feels genuinely magical because you are surrounded by 7,000-year-old stone walls. Unlike generic markets, stalls here feature local artisans selling fossils (a local specialty), olive wood carvings, and handmade soaps.

The iconic tree

The Byblos tree is a national icon located at the entrance to the old city on the Roman Road. Its design changes annually, and the lighting ceremony is a televised national event.

• Best Time: Mid-December through early January.

• Cost: Market browsing is free; expect to spend $20-$50 on artisan goods.

• Tip: Arrive before 4 PM to find easier parking in paid lots and catch the sunset over the harbor.

6. Visit Batroun: The capital of festivities

Batroun has positioned itself as the Capitale de Noël, attracting a younger, hipper crowd. The entire old town becomes pedestrianized, and the highlight is the 3D mapping projections on the façade of Saint Stephen’s Cathedral.

The Diaspora Village

A unique market section highlights businesses started by the Lebanese diaspora, selling craft gins, wines, and artisanal preserves.

Nightlife advantage

Batroun is the epicenter of coastal nightlife even in winter.

• Venues: Colonel Reef and Pierre & Friends offer a beach-party vibe.

• Reviews: Bolero is consistently rated as a top spot for “good vibes” and great cocktails.

• Budget: Dining and drinks run $30-$60 per person.

7. Embrace the energy of Beirut

Beirut offers a fragmented but intensely vibrant experience of Christmas in Lebanon, split between commercial spectacle and neighborhood charm.

• Beirut Souks (Downtown): Hosts “Beirut Christmas Spirit” with parades and Santa houses. Polished and family-centric.

• Mar Mikhael & Gemmayze: The nightlife hubs where the holiday becomes a street party. Bars overflow onto sidewalks, and pop-up markets appear in heritage houses like Villa Sursock.

• Badaro: A quieter “Urban Market” featuring local farmers and designers.

• Stay: Consider Smallville Hotel (Badaro) or Arthaus (Gemmayze) for boutique experiences.

8. Skiing and mountain escapes

The concept of skiing in the Middle East is a major draw, but you need realistic expectations. Climate change has impacted the reliability of a “White Christmas.”

• The Reality: Historical data for Faraya shows December averages of 15°C (58°F) highs and only 5.5 inches of snow.

• The Verdict: Skiing is a bonus, not a guarantee. Prime season is mid-January through March.

Ski resort breakdown

9. Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style

Lebanon punches significantly above its weight in nightlife, and New Year’s Eve (Ras El Sanah) is the apex of the social calendar.

• Mega-Clubs: Venues like AHM (Waterfront) and The Gärten host massive events. Tickets cost $100-$200.

• Resto-Clubs: Places like Clap (Downtown) and Pacifico (Monot) transition from dinner to dancing on tables.

• Mountain Party: Chalets in Mzaar host private raves and “Snow Parties” with fireworks over the peaks.

Safety Warning: Celebratory gunfire at midnight remains a persistent issue. It is strictly advisable to be indoors or under a solid roof during the transition to the New Year.

10. Shop for authentic souvenirs

Gift-giving is a generous affair here. Avoid mass-produced items and opt for these authentic gifts:

• Mouneh: Traditional preserves (fig jam, pomegranate molasses) from brands like Terroirs du Liban.

• Design: Images d’Orient offers coasters and tinware inspired by Mediterranean tiles.

• Fashion: Sarah’s Bag features handbags made by female prisoners—a socially conscious luxury item.

• Wellness: Olive oil soap from Tripoli’s Khan Al Saboun.

• Crafts: Traditional backgammon boards (Tawleh) with mosaic inlay.

Suggested Itineraries

The Classic & Cultural (7 Days):

1. Arrival, check into Smallville Hotel, evening in Mar Mikhael.

2. National Museum & downtown markets.

3. Byblos (Citadel, old souk, tree).

4. Batroun (Diaspora market, lunch at Chez Maguy).

5. Mountain drive to Faraya.

6. Holy Valley (Bcharre, Cedars of God).

7. Shopping in Badaro.

The Gastronomy & Nightlife (Long Weekend):

1. Friday: Lunch at Leila (Zaitunay Bay), dinner at Baron (Mar Mikhael), clubbing at AHM.

2. Saturday: Manakish brunch, drive to Batroun for seafood, bar hopping in the souk.

3. Sunday: Family-style lunch at a winery (Château Kefraya or Ixsir).

Christmas in Lebanon is raw, energetic, and profoundly human. It is a destination that rewards travelers who embrace complexity and authenticity. Despite economic challenges, the Lebanese spirit remains unbroken. The key is to approach your trip with flexibility, bring crisp USD bills, and prepare to be overwhelmed—not by danger, but by the sheer force of hospitality.