There’s a meme that pops up around the holidays, showing a restaurant sign thanking Jewish people for dining on Christmas. It humorously hints at a popular tradition: Jews and Chinese food on Christmas.
Is this sign real? Maybe not. Snopes couldn’t find proof of the restaurant group even existing. Yet, this joke reveals a beloved custom among many American Jews.
So, why do Jews, who don’t celebrate Christmas, have their own holiday traditions?
Jews have always adapted to the cultures around them while keeping their own identities. This blending creates unique Christmas traditions. Some of these insights were shared during interviews for my book, “Beyond Chrismukkah: The Christian-Jewish Interfaith Family in the United States.”
### Historical Tidbits
Before Jews arrived in the U.S., some in Europe celebrated Christmas culturally, even if they skipped the religious aspects. As far back as the late 1300s, Jewish folklore featured Christmas themes. Many Jewish communities spent Christmas Eve partying, similar to their Christian neighbors.
Jordan Chad, author of “Christmas in Yiddish Tradition,” notes that these customs evolved to celebrate the season rather than the holiday itself. Even in the 20th century, middle-class German Jews often embraced a secular version of Christmas, complete with trees and holiday feasts. This shows that Christmas traditions can be more cultural than religious.
Even so, Christmas in the U.S. holds a unique power. Many immigrants, including non-Christians, celebrate it in their own ways, often without religious focus. Among American Jews, interfaith marriages are common, with estimates suggesting around 50% of Jewish couples marry outside their faith. This intermingling of families often leads to shared Christmas experiences.
### The Chinese Food Connection
For many Jews today, it’s crucial not to celebrate a secular Christmas. Since the 1970s, some rabbis discouraged any Christmas festivities. Yet, many Jews still find ways to fill their day off. One beloved choice? Chinese food.
The idea of Jews eating Chinese food on Christmas became well-known. Justice Elena Kagan even joked about it during her 2010 confirmation hearings. The first recorded mention of this tradition dates back to 1935 when a man named Eng Shee Chuck donated food to a Jewish orphanage.
Unlike other cuisines, Chinese food typically avoids dairy, making it easier for Jews to eat. While some dishes might have pork or shrimp, many Jews make exceptions for Chinese meals, especially when dining out. Many Chinese restaurants adapted their menus, offering chicken alternatives to appeal to Jewish diners.
### Modern Traditions
By the late 20th century, dining out at Chinese restaurants followed by a movie on Christmas became a well-loved routine many Jews cherish. Chinese restaurants, often open on December 25, become bustling hubs of celebration for Jewish families.
In recent years, some have turned the holiday into a day of giving. Jewish individuals often volunteer at soup kitchens or visit nursing homes, ensuring they contribute positively to their communities.
Living in a culture that tends to shut down on Christmas allows Jews to create their traditions. Whether it’s enjoying a meal or finding ways to support others, these unique customs reflect both cultural identity and community spirit.
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