The Christmas season spans several weeks and includes multiple feast days, each with its own vestment requirements. Here's your complete guide to what to wear from the First Sunday of Advent through the Baptism of the Lord.
Christmas Season Vestment Colors
| Day | Color | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First Sunday of Advent | Violet | Season of preparation begins |
| Gaudete Sunday (3rd Advent) | Rose (optional) | Midpoint joy |
| Dec 8: Immaculate Conception | White | Solemnity overrides Advent |
| Dec 24: Christmas Vigil | White | Christmas begins |
| Dec 25: Midnight/Dawn/Day Mass | White or Gold | Most solemn celebrations |
| Dec 26: St. Stephen | Red | Feast of the first martyr |
| Dec 27: St. John the Evangelist | White | Feast of the beloved disciple |
| Dec 28: Holy Innocents | Red | Feast of the martyred children |
| Jan 1: Solemnity of Mary | White | Octave of Christmas |
| Epiphany | White | The Magi adore the Child |
| Baptism of the Lord | White | End of Christmas season |
What I Recommend
For the Christmas season, make sure you have white vestments in good condition. Gold is a beautiful addition for Christmas Day and Epiphany. Don't forget red for St. Stephen and the Holy Innocents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use blue for Christmas?
A: No, blue is not an official liturgical color in the Roman Rite. White (or gold) is the proper color for Christmas celebrations.
Conclusion
The Christmas season is rich with feast days and celebrations. Having the right vestments for each day shows reverence for the liturgy and helps the faithful enter into the joy of the season.
Browse our Christmas vestment collection — white, gold, and red chasubles, stoles, and dalmatics.