Why Did People Have Christmas Day Weddings? The reason is perhaps not as romantic as it may first seem.

While the idea of Christmas Day weddings might seem full of romance and festive magic, the origins of this tradition were rooted in practicality rather than sentimentality. During the 18^th and 19^th centuries, Christmas was one of the few times working-class individuals were guaranteed at least one day off, if not two, from their demanding six-day work weeks.

This made it a practical choice for couples to celebrate their nuptials on 25^th December, as depicted in Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, where even Bob Cratchit was granted time off.

Inner City Batch Weddings

Christmas Day weddings were especially common in inner-city areas, where large industrial working-class communities lived. Weddings back then were simple affairs without the expensive tastes that we tend to see today. However, guests would certainly dress up for the occasion, with ‘Sunday dress’ very much expected. People were, after all, going to church.

Some church even offered free or reduced cost services at Christmas. In some areas of the country this became something of a tradition, particularly in London. There is evidence of batch weddings taking place on Christmas Day at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Victorian times.

We have also unearthed historical records which reveal 78 Christmas Day marriages at Manchester Collegiate Church (now Manchester Cathedral) 150 years ago.

20^th Century

World War II saw a brief revival of this tradition. With heightened mortality fears, couples seized their limited leave to marry during the Christmas season, adding urgency to the occasion.

The decline of Christmas Day weddings began in the 20th century, with the rise of trade unions and improved working conditions. Greater flexibility in annual leave, combined with the logistical challenges of a Christmas Day wedding, such as venue and supplier availability and costs, has made such weddings a rarity today. Plus, you might find that your intended guests are otherwise engaged.

For family history enthusiasts, these weddings offer a glimpse into the social and cultural fabric of the Victorian era, reflecting how practicality and tradition intertwined during the festive season.

For more insights into genealogy and historical traditions, explore our Family Historians articles.