Legally Married in California on Christmas Eve & Christmas Day | Get Married Today

Legally Married in California on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Many couples are surprised to learn that it is actually possible to become legally married in California on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Even though county clerk offices and courthouses are typically closed for the holidays, a legal marriage can still be completed through properly authorized marriage services.

Yes — Christmas marriages are legal Courthouse not required Same-day legal process Office or mobile service

Helpful starting points: Get Legally Married on Holidays · Marriage Requirements · Confidential Marriage License

How Is It Possible to Get Married on Christmas?

A courthouse closure affects public walk-in services—but it does not eliminate the legal ability to complete a marriage. California law allows a marriage to be legally valid when:

Authorized License Workflow

Many couples use a confidential marriage license process, which does not rely on a traditional county clerk appointment on the same day.

Learn about confidential licenses

Legal Officiant Ceremony

A licensed and ordained officiant performs a legally compliant ceremony, whether at an office setting or at your chosen location.

Marriage at your location

Proper Filing After the Holiday

The completed paperwork is filed with the county following the correct process, ensuring your marriage is officially recorded.

What is proof of marriage?
TITLE: Christmas Eve & Christmas Day Marriage in California FACT: - Courthouses are typically closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. - A legal marriage is still possible when the license, ceremony, and filing are completed correctly. REQUIREMENTS: - Both parties must present valid government-issued photo ID. - Both parties must be coherent enough to understand and consent. - Prior marriages must be legally ended if applicable. WHY THIS WORKS: - California law recognizes marriages completed by authorized processes. - Filing timing does not negate the validity of a properly completed ceremony.

Step-by-Step: Getting Married on Christmas

1

Select Your Service

Choose a license-only, ceremony-only, or license + ceremony option.

View services
2

Prepare Required Documents

Bring valid ID and ensure both parties are able to consent.

View requirements
3

Complete the Ceremony

A legal ceremony is performed on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.

Same-day marriage in Irvine
4

County Filing

Paperwork is submitted through the proper channels after the holiday.

Common filing questions

Who Chooses to Get Married on Christmas?

Military Couples

Deployment timelines and limited leave often make holidays the best option.

Military marriage services

Hospital & Care Facility Situations

Urgent marriages where time matters most.

Mobile marriage service

Elopements

Private, meaningful ceremonies outside a courthouse setting.

View real ceremonies

International & Immigration Couples

Couples planning to use their marriage for immigration or abroad.

Immigration marriages

Same-Sex Couples

Fully legal and respectful marriage services statewide.

California eligibility

Tax & Employer Benefit Deadlines

End-of-year timelines often align with Christmas.

One-day marriage guide

Official Government Resources

For official guidance on California marriage law and records:

Christmas Marriage FAQs

1. Is Christmas Day a legal marriage date in California?

Yes, a marriage can be legally completed on Christmas Day when done properly.

2. Do courthouses have to be open?

No. Courthouse closure does not prevent a legal marriage.

3. Do both partners need ID?

Yes, valid government-issued photo ID is required.

4. What does “coherent enough” mean?

Both parties must understand and consent to the marriage.

5. Can we marry at home or a hotel?

Yes, mobile services allow private locations.

6. Are witnesses required?

It depends on the license type used.

7. Is the marriage valid for immigration?

Yes, if completed correctly.

8. Can same-sex couples marry on Christmas?

Absolutely.

9. Can international visitors marry?

Yes, citizenship is not required.

10. What if one party was previously married?

Prior marriages must be legally ended.

11. Can we do a Christmas elopement?

Yes, many couples choose this option.

12. Is filing delayed because of the holiday?

Filing follows proper procedures after the holiday.

13. Is the marriage date still Christmas?

Yes, the ceremony date is the legal marriage date.

14. Can you travel to us?

Yes, mobile services are available.

15. Can we marry for tax reasons?

Many couples do; consult a tax professional.

16. Can we marry for employer benefits?

Yes, proof of marriage can be used.

17. Are Christmas Eve and Christmas Day different?

Both are common holiday marriage dates.

18. Can we include family?

Yes, depending on service type.

19. Is this recognized statewide?

Yes, a valid California marriage is recognized statewide.

20. Where can we learn more?

See linked resources and official government sites above.

Explore more: Home · Holiday Marriages · FAQ · Gallery · Shop · Irvine · At Your Location · Immigration · K-1 Visa · Military · Orange County Apostille · Your Local Notary Public

Legally Married in California on Christmas Eve & Christmas Day | Get Married Today