Christmas Day in Guam

A legal holiday on December 25

Guam’s code lists Christmas, December 25, among the holidays of Guam. It says that when a listed holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the government of Guam follows the federal government’s practice for that holiday. The Judiciary of Guam also lists Christmas Day among its holidays.[1][2]

The code provides for closure of public offices on holidays when other laws or regulations require those offices to close. It does not establish that every private workplace closes or that every employee receives paid leave, so workers should check their employer’s policy.[1]

Catholic roots in Guam

The Catholic history associated with Christmas in Guam has roots in the Spanish mission established in Hagåtña. Guampedia records that Jesuit priest Diego Luis de San Vitores arrived in Guam in 1668 and established the first Catholic mission in the capital. The early Christian mission became part of a major period of change and conflict for CHamoru communities.[3]

Christmas observances are part of this longer religious history, though practices vary among households and communities. The Guam Visitors Bureau describes nativity scenes, called belen, and novenas as features of the island’s Christmas season.[4]

Novenas, nativity scenes and gatherings

Some families and communities hold a nobena, or novena: a series of prayers over nine days led by a techa, or prayer leader. The Guam Visitors Bureau notes that these gatherings can bring generations together to pass on faith and culture, and may conclude with a feast.[4]

Belen displays depict the Nativity, while Christmas fiestas offer another setting for relatives, friends and community members to gather. The Visitors Bureau describes church fiestas and festive tables that may include shrimp patties, roast pig, red rice and latiya. These are examples of seasonal foods, not a menu shared by every household.[4]

What to expect on the holiday

Because Christmas is a legal holiday, public offices that are required to close on holidays are affected; the Judiciary’s calendar includes Christmas Day. The law and calendar do not establish opening hours for banks, shops, restaurants or tourist attractions, and Guam’s public transit schedule does not confirm a Christmas Day service pattern. Check directly with individual businesses and transport providers before making plans.[1][2]