In Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, worshippers gathered at Meskel Square on Christmas Eve. In Bethlehem, located in the occupied West Bank, clergy prepared for the arrival of Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem Theophilos III at the Church of the Nativity, traditionally recognized as the birthplace of Jesus Christ. Palestinian scout bands also paraded through Manger Square outside the Church of the Nativity, as reported by the Associated Press.

Orthodox Christmas services were held outside the Kashveti Church of St George in Tbilisi, Georgia, according to photographer Zurab Tsertsvadze. In Cairo, Egypt, a Coptic Orthodox bishop led Christmas prayers at Archangel Michael Church, as documented by Amr Nabil of the Associated Press. Iranian Christians also attended services to celebrate Christmas.

The divergence in dates stems from the historical use of the Julian calendar by the Eastern Orthodox Church. While much of the world adopted the Gregorian calendar in 1582, a correction to the Julian calendar implemented by Pope Gregory XIII, many Orthodox churches maintained their adherence to the older system. This difference accounts for the 13-day discrepancy. The continued use of the Julian calendar represents a tradition deeply rooted in the history and identity of these Orthodox communities. The celebrations highlight the diverse expressions of faith and cultural heritage within the Christian world.