Christian New Year in Baghdad

🎄 Christian New Year in Iraq – Christmas & New Year's Eve Celebration Tour

✨ About the Occasion:

Date: December 31 – January 1

Celebrated by: Iraqi Christians (Chaldeans, Assyrians, Syriacs, Catholics, and Orthodox)

Nature: Religious + Cultural + Social

Main Celebration Cities: Baghdad, Erbil, Duhok, Ankawa, Kirkuk, partially Mosul

🎉 How It’s Celebrated in Baghdad:

Midnight Mass in beautifully decorated churches like:

St. Joseph Cathedral (Karrada)

Church of the Virgin Mary (Zayouna)

St. George Church (Baghdad Al-Jadida)

Christmas trees and lights in homes, churches, and streets

Gift giving, sweets for children, and festive family gatherings

Community events and music in halls and restaurants

Warm support from Muslims and other communities, making it a true celebration of diversity

🧭 Baghdad New Year's Eve Tour with the Christian Community

🕒 Duration: One-day tour (Evening of December 31 to early morning January 1)

📍 Starting & Ending Point: Baghdad

🎯 Purpose: Experience Christmas spirit, attend mass, and celebrate with locals

🗓️ Itinerary:

05:00 PM – Departure from hotel or designated meeting point
🚐 Visit decorated streets in Karrada and Palestine Street

06:00 PM – Stop at a traditional café in Karrada
☕ Enjoy Iraqi tea & learn about Iraqi Christian traditions

07:30 PM – Visit to St. Joseph Cathedral (Karrada)
📖 Church tour + introduction by local priest
📸 Photos with the Christmas tree and nativity scene

08:30 PM – Dinner at a local Christian or Iraqi restaurant
🥘 Enjoy a traditional or vegetarian meal (based on preference)

10:30 PM – Return to the church for part of the Midnight Mass
🕯️ Listen to hymns, witness prayers, and feel the spiritual atmosphere

12:00 AM – New Year Countdown & Celebration
🎆 Join the public celebration with fireworks and festive music
🥳 Exchange greetings with locals and tourists

01:00 AM – Return to the starting point – end of the tour

✅ Tour Includes:

Private air-conditioned transportation

Professional guide with knowledge of Christian culture in Iraq

Entry and coordination with the church

Dinner + refreshments

Optional professional photography

📌 Important Notes:

Modest or semi-formal dress is recommended

Photography is allowed in public areas; church photography requires permission

The tour is safe and coordinated with church and local authorities

Respect and quiet during mass is appreciated