I don’t celebrate Christmas as I am Muslim but it’s still a time for community and to help those of us who need it – I have often fed those who don’t have a hot meal through my restaurant business.

I do love to host. Christmas days is such a great opportunity as so many people are off of work and I love doing a Christmas dinner. Its also one of the only times of a year you can get a halal turkey!

We don’t do staple things like trees, wreaths or present giving. We have our own time for that – Eid.

I must say, I love the boxing day sales!

It’s important for us teach our children why we don’t celebrate Christmas. My youngest son is 5 and he still doesn’t really understand why we don’t celebrate Christmas – everyone in his class does. I explain that although it’s not part of our religion, we have other things. But Jesus is still very important to our religion, even thought our beliefs differ to Christian Beliefs.

My top tips for hosting, especially at this time of year:

• Everyone bring a dish
• Everyone bring a drink
• It doesn't have to be traditional "turkey"
• The most important thing is being together

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