Christmas is more than a season of lights, gifts, and decorations. At its heart,it is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the world. Yet in recent years, many companies and organisations have subtly removed “Christ” from Christmas, replacing it with neutral phrases such as “Holiday Season”, “Festive Season”, or simply “Holidays”.

This trend may seem minor, but it reflects a larger cultural shift: sidelining the seasons spiritual significance in favour of neutrality or inclusivity. When we say “Merry Christmas”, we acknowledge Jesus, remembering the hope, love, and joy He brought into the world.

Who’s Removing “Christ” from Christmas?

Several major US companies have faced criticism over the years for avoiding the word “Christmas” in advertising or store branding:

1) Walmart

In the 2000s, Walmart shifted signage and staff greetings to “Happy Holidays” and replaced “Christmas Shop” branding with “Holiday Shop”.

2) Target.

Known for using generic holiday language in advertising and store decor rather than “Christmas”.

3) Best Buy.

Criticised for emphasising “holiday” promotions over Christmas rather than “Christmas”,

4) Kmart/Sears.

Renamed Christmas trees “holiday trees.

5) Walgreens.

Frequently uses “holiday” in place of Christmas in seasonal marketing.

6) Dick’s Sporting Goods.

Listed among retailers that “silenced” Christmas in their campaigns.

The reason offered by these companies often revolves around inclusivity, avoding offence to non-Christian customers, but the effect is the same: Christ is removed from the very celebration that bears His name.

Pushback and Reversal.

Public backlash has caused some companies to rethink their language. Walmart (who for a time owned Asda now they retain 10% of the company) for example, eventually reinstated the word “Christmas” in its seasonal promotions after criticism. Target has similarly adjusted its messaging in recent years. Yet the conversation continues, highlighting the tension between commerical considerations and the spiritual meaning of the holiday.

Why This Matters.

Keeping Christ at the centre of Christmas isn’t about exclusion, it’s about remembrance. It’s a chance to celebrate love, hope, and peace that Christ brought into the world. When we consciously acknowledge Him, we preserve the season’s true heart in a culture that prioritises commerce or neutral language over spiritual truth.

This Christmas, let’s remember why the season exists. Say His name. Celebrate His birth. And never let “Christ” be taken out of Christmas.

God bless you.

Nick x.