The Amish celebrate several holidays, each carrying deep religious significance and tradition. Here are the key holidays observed by the Amish community.
Christmas (December 25th)
This is a solemn celebration of Christ’s birth, marked by simple gift exchanges, and family gatherings. It’s a day more focused on religious reflection than on common Christmas traditions like decorating trees or Santa Claus.
Amish Christmas celebrations are pretty unique.
The Amish keep it simple. You won’t find flashy lights or big Christmas trees in their homes. They might use candles and some greenery for a festive touch, or even hang a Christmas tree upside down, which is definitely different from the typical holiday decor.
Christmas dinner is an important event. The menu usually includes classic items like turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, fruits, and Christmas pudding.
Sounds delicious, right?
The whole Santa Claus thing isn’t part of their tradition. They might do a modest gift exchange on Christmas Day, but don’t expect long wish lists or trips to the mall to see Santa.
Around Christmas, Amish kids put on a special program at school. They sing carols, and recite verses from the Bible. It’s a community event, and sometimes non-Amish neighbors are invited to join in.
Second Christmas (December 26th)
The day after Christmas is known as “Second Christmas.” It’s a time for relaxing, visiting extended family, and sharing meals. Amish families gather for another big meal, but everyone pitches in by bringing a dish.
Second Christmas is more about socializing and less about formal religious observance.
Old Christmas (January 6th)
Some Amish communities celebrate “Old Christmas” on January 6th, exactly twelve days after Christmas. This day traditionally commemorates the visit of the Three Wise Men to Bethlehem.
Good Friday
In Amish tradition, their Easter celebration begins on the Friday before Easter Sunday.
This day is observed with fasting, prayer, and reading scriptures about the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.
Easter Sunday
Easter is celebrated to honor Jesus’ resurrection. The day is marked by religious reflection and community gatherings.
Some Amish families also celebrate Easter Monday as a day of rest and family time.
Even though Amish families don’t usually have a big feast, they do have a bigger dinner than usual for Easter. Eggs are the main focus of their meal, representing life and renewal.
Amish families don’t include the Easter Bunny in their celebrations.
Ascension Day (40 days after Easter Sunday)
This holiday marks Jesus’ ascension into heaven. It is observed as a day of rest, with many Amish communities closing their businesses to spend time with family.
Pentecost Monday
Pentecost Monday or the day after Pentecost is celebrated 50 days after Easter Sunday.
This day is recognized as the time when the Holy Spirit descended on the Apostles. It’s another day for rest and spiritual reflection, often marked with church picnics or youth gatherings.
Thanksgiving (November)
The Amish observe Thanksgiving similarly to the wider American tradition. It’s a day for family gatherings, giving thanks, and enjoying a feast.
New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
These holidays are celebrated on December 31st and January 1st. They are observed with church services, hymn singing, and family gatherings.
New Year’s Eve is not celebrated with late-night parties as in mainstream society.
While these holidays are commonly celebrated, practices can vary among different Amish communities.
The Amish do not observe holidays like Halloween or federal holidays like Columbus Day or Labor Day.
Their holidays are deeply intertwined with their religious beliefs and practices, focusing on reflection, family, and community rather than commercial or secular aspects​.