Christmas 2026 in Hong Kong: Involving Your Domestic Helper in Family Celebrations

Christmas with your domestic helper HelperChoice

Updated 20 January 2026

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December has arrived, and whether the Christmas decorations are already up or still in storage, most households naturally shift into holiday mode around this time.

For employers, Christmas planning often goes hand in hand with a practical question: what are your domestic helper’s plans during the holidays? This matters whether your family is staying in the city or travelling abroad, as it helps with scheduling, logistics, and expectations.

Based on a HelperChoice survey, Christmas is meaningful for many foreign domestic workers:

21% celebrate Christmas with their families
20% spend it with friends
Almost half attend church services

At the same time, some domestic helpers continue working during the holiday period. In Hong Kong, employers may choose to grant either Christmas Day or the Chinese Winter Solstice (around 22 December) as the statutory holiday which means not every helper is automatically off on Christmas Day.

Having an open conversation early helps everyone plan ahead in a respectful way.

Thoughtful Christmas Gift Ideas for Your Domestic Helper

Christmas is also a natural time to say thank you. While gifts are never an obligation, many employers like to mark the season with a gesture of appreciation. If you’re looking for inspiration, here are a few meaningful ideas that many foreign domestic workers truly value.

A Trip Back Home

For many Filipino domestic helpers, Christmas is closely tied to family and religious traditions. Spending the holidays back home can be deeply meaningful.

If your domestic helper hopes to return home for Christmas and your household schedule allows it, you might consider helping by covering or contributing to a flight ticket.

It’s worth noting that some airlines and travel agencies offer special fares for domestic helpers, even if these aren’t clearly advertised online. Calling directly to ask about discounted rates can sometimes make a difference.

Gifts for Your Domestic Helper’s Family

Many domestic helpers think about their families first during Christmas. In fact, a large number send gifts home in a balikbayan box or carry them personally when travelling.

Common items in a Balikbayan Box

Joining in by contributing a small gift for your domestic helper’s family can be a touching way to acknowledge that Christmas is not just about your household, but also about the loved ones she supports back home.

Cooking or Baking Classes

Some domestic helpers see Christmas as a chance to invest in themselves. Cooking or baking classes—especially those focused on Western-style dishes—are popular among helpers who hope to open a small business or expand their skills in the future. This type of gift can feel both practical and encouraging, especially for helpers who enjoy learning and long-term planning.

Tickets to Amusement Parks

For helpers who enjoy outings and experiences, tickets to local attractions can be a fun surprise.

In Hong Kong, popular options include:

Hong Kong Disneyland
Ocean Park

For employers in other locations, attractions like theme parks or wildlife parks can be equally appreciated. Experience-based gifts often create happy memories without adding clutter.

Sometimes, the Most Meaningful Gift Is Appreciation

Above all, Christmas is a good moment to recognize the effort and care your domestic helper brings into your home throughout the year. A simple gesture can mean a lot:

A handwritten card
A few sincere words of thanks
Involving children in decorating a card or preparing a small surprise

These moments don’t need to be elaborate. What matters is the message of appreciation and respect.

A Gentle Reminder for Christmas 2026

Every domestic helper’s situation, beliefs, and preferences are different. Some may want to celebrate fully, others may prefer quiet time or church, and some may simply appreciate rest.

Approaching Christmas 2026 with open communication and thoughtful planning helps ensure the holiday feels positive and respectful for everyone in the household.

At HelperChoice, we believe the best Christmas celebrations are those built on understanding, kindness, and shared consideration—making the family holiday meaningful not just for one, but for all.