A Palestinian Christian Tradition: St. Barbara’s Festival in Aboud

In the hills northwest of Ramallah lies Aboud, a historic Christian town where faith and tradition have been passed down for generations. Each December, the town celebrates the Feast of St. Barbara, a beloved Palestinian Christian tradition rooted in courage, community, and remembrance.

According to local tradition, St. Barbara was martyred and buried in Aboud, making the town a place of deep spiritual significance. Families gather to honor her life with prayers, processions, and shared meals—celebrating not only a saint, but the endurance of Palestinian Christian heritage.

At the heart of the festival is Burbara pudding, a warm dish made from wheat, sugar or honey, and topped with nuts, raisins, coconut, or pomegranate. The dish recalls the story of St. Barbara hiding in a wheat field to escape persecution, and it has become a symbol of protection, gratitude, and generosity. Homes fill with the scent of simmering wheat, and bowls of Burbara are shared between neighbors and loved ones.

In Aboud, children dress in costumes inspired by nature, songs fill the streets, and churches glow with candlelight. In a land shaped by resilience, this celebration is a powerful reminder of continuity—faith lived, shared, and lovingly handed down.

At Handmade Palestine, we honor traditions like St. Barbara’s Festival as living heritage. This Christmas season, we invite you to join us in celebrating a Palestinian story of faith, community, and hope.

Check out the recipe here to make your own Barbara Pudding.