The December 2025 calendar begins with major seasonal events, important holidays, and several national observances that shape the final month of the year for people across the United States. The month starts on a Monday and includes a full lineup of celebrations, from Cyber Monday to Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s Eve. Here’s a clear, fully verified breakdown of everything happening this month.
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Overview of the December 2025 Calendar
December 2025 runs from Monday, December 1, through Wednesday, December 31. The month includes key U.S. holidays, cultural observances, and winter milestones that many households rely on when planning travel, work schedules, and seasonal activities.
Below is an at-a-glance look at the most notable dates:
| Date | Day | Holiday / Event |
|---|---|---|
| December 1, 2025 | Monday | Cyber Monday, World AIDS Day, National Christmas Lights Day |
| December 14–22, 2025 | Sunday–Monday | Hanukkah (begins evening of Dec 14; ends nightfall Dec 22) |
| December 24, 2025 | Wednesday | Christmas Eve |
| December 25, 2025 | Thursday | Christmas Day |
| December 26, 2025 | Friday | Start of Kwanzaa |
| December 31, 2025 | Wednesday | New Year’s Eve |
December’s moon phases include a Full Moon early in the month, a Third Quarter shortly after, a New Moon near December 19, and a First Quarter Moon closer to the end of the month.
Holidays and Observances in December 2025
Cyber Monday – December 1
The month opens with Cyber Monday, one of the biggest online shopping days of the year. Many households look forward to tech deals, seasonal discounts, and early access to holiday offers. December 1 also marks several national observances, including World AIDS Day and festive celebrations like National Christmas Lights Day, which often kicks off home decorating across the country.
Hanukkah – December 14 to December 22
Hanukkah in 2025 begins at sundown on Sunday, December 14, and ends at nightfall on Monday, December 22. Families celebrate the Festival of Lights with nightly menorah lighting, shared meals, traditional foods, community gatherings, and gift exchanges. Because the observance stretches across eight nights, it becomes a major part of mid-December planning for many families.
Christmas – December 24 and 25
Christmas Eve falls on Wednesday, December 24, followed by Christmas Day on Thursday, December 25. These two days represent a central point in the American holiday season. Many workplaces close, travel peaks, and families gather for traditions ranging from church services to gift giving, festive meals, and seasonal events.
Kwanzaa – Begins December 26
Kwanzaa begins on Friday, December 26, and continues through early January. The weeklong celebration focuses on African American heritage, community principles, unity, and cultural expression. Each day centers on one of the seven core principles, known as the Nguzo Saba.
New Year’s Eve – December 31
The year concludes with New Year’s Eve on Wednesday, December 31. Cities across the country host countdowns, community celebrations, concerts, and fireworks. Households often gather for parties, dinners, and end-of-year traditions as the nation prepares to welcome 2026.
Moon Phases and Seasonal Planning
December’s moon phases play a role for those who follow astronomy, winter photography, outdoor activities, or seasonal transitions. The sequence includes:
- A Full Moon in the opening days of the month
- A Third Quarter Moon about a week later
- A New Moon near December 19
- A First Quarter Moon in the final week
Because December nights are long across the United States, many people enjoy stargazing, night walks, and seasonal skywatching, especially near the Full Moon.
Why the December 2025 Calendar Matters for U.S. Readers
December is one of the most active months of the year, and the calendar plays an essential role in planning. Here’s why:
1. Holiday Travel and Family Gatherings
Millions of Americans travel during the Christmas and New Year season. Understanding the exact dates helps organize flights, road trips, and holiday schedules.
2. Work and School Breaks
Most school districts observe winter recess during the second half of December. Many workplaces close for major holidays, and some operate on limited schedules for the final week of the month.
3. Cultural and Religious Traditions
Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa all fall within a short period, making December a rich month of cultural celebration across the country.
4. Seasonal Activities
Events like tree-lighting ceremonies, winter festivals, ice skating openings, and holiday markets all revolve around the month’s holiday timeline.
5. End-of-Year Planning
From financial deadlines to personal goals, many individuals use December to wrap up obligations and prepare for January.
Key Takeaways for December 2025
- The month starts on a Monday and ends on a Wednesday.
- Cyber Monday leads the month on December 1.
- Hanukkah runs from December 14 to December 22.
- Christmas Eve and Christmas Day fall mid-week.
- Kwanzaa begins December 26.
- New Year’s Eve closes the month on December 31.
- Moon phases include a Full Moon, Third Quarter, New Moon, and First Quarter.
December 2025 brings a full calendar of observances and celebrations that shape the end-of-year experience for families across the country.
Feel free to share what events or celebrations you’re most excited for as December 2025 approaches.