My daughter is due to do Nikaah, Inshaa Allaah soon and we were hoping to do this on 25th December. However as new Muslim myself and also my daughter convert, we have been told that really this day we as Muslims should not do anything on this day as it is a pagan celebration, also something to do with Nimrad, I'm sorry, I'm not sure if this is spelt correct or the proper name. Inshaa Allaah, you can help me on this, because we fear Allaah and do not want to do anything which may go against his teachings. Also can you tell us also, if we are at a gathering of Muslim sisters and a non-Muslim is also present is it ok for our hair to be open, some say it is ok as only if you think some harm from these women, and others say you should not make this person uncomfortable because she is non-Muslim we all have to put our Hijaab back on and she is the only one in the room with nothing on her head. Inshaa Allaah, you are able to understand my questions.

All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger. We ask Allaah to exalt his mention as well as that of his family and all his companions.

First of all we congratulate you and your daughter about the Blessing of Allaah on both of you as He enabled you and guided you to embrace Islam. We ask Him to help you stay firm on this religion.

As regards holding the marriage ceremony on this day which coincides with Christmas, there is no harm in this, Insha Allaah, as long as this day is not purposefully chosen to glorify it or to participate in the celebration of this day by the Christians. We draw your attention and the attention of your daughter to be keen on acquiring religious knowledge and keeping in touch with Islamic organizations and centres. You should also keep company with the pious Muslim women who would help you in performing righteous actions and good deeds.

As regards your second question, please refer to Fatwa: 81343.                                       

Allaah knows best.