by Elira, age 8, asks what day Christmas falls on in 2026, about Tirana’s mountains, and Albania’s religions
Dear Santa,
Tungjatjeta from Tirana. My name is Elira and I am 8 years old. My dad has already started planning our family trip for next Christmas, marking a date on the kitchen calendar so carefully that my mum keeps teasing him about being far too organised.
My first question is: what day of the week will Christmas actually fall on in 2026?
My second question is geography: what mountains surround Tirana?
My third question is from school: why does Albania have such a mix of religious traditions?
I left you baklava and a small cup of Albanian coffee.
Love, Elira, age 8, Tirana, Albania
From the Desk of Father Christmas
Dear Elira, baklava and coffee made for a lovely, sweet stop, thank you very much. Now, to help your dad with his careful planning, and your other questions.
What day will Christmas fall on in 2026?
Christmas Day in 2026 falls on a Friday, which means many families will get a lovely long weekend built right around it. Your dad’s early planning sounds like a wise move for booking anything that might get busy closer to the date.
What mountains surround Tirana?
Tirana sits in a valley with the Dajti Mountain rising close by to the east, tall enough that a cable car carries visitors up to enjoy sweeping views over the whole city below.
Why does Albania have such a mix of religious traditions?
Albania’s history includes long periods under different empires, which brought Islam, Orthodox Christianity, and Catholicism into the country at different times, and these communities largely lived side by side for centuries. Albania is unusual in having a strong tradition of religious tolerance, with mosques and churches often standing close together, reflecting that long, blended history.
Tell your dad his planning has my full approval, and I shall see you very soon.
Ho ho ho, Santa
