Christmas in Ukraine

Christmas in Ukraine is a very special cultural holiday full of traditions. Traditionally, Christmas is celebrated either on December 25th according to the Gregorian calendar or January 7th according to the Julian calendar. The celebration lasts for two days. On Christmas Eve, families gather to have a big dinner called Sviat Vechir. This dinner includes twelve dishes, which represent the twelve apostles. Some of the foods are kutia (a sweet grain dish or wheat berry pudding), borscht (beetroot soup), and varenyky (half-moon-shaped dumplings). The air smells like fresh pine as people decorate their homes with Christmas trees and lights. The main house decoration that you will see is the didukh (a sheaf of wheat stalks) that symbolizes our ancestors spirits. It is believed that during these holy days – our ancestors return to spend time with their families. That is also why some Kutia and other dishes should be left on the table – as a treat for deceased relatives. Also, you can hear carolers singing traditional songs in the streets. Boys and girls prepare special songs and verses they take from house to house, entertaining their community in exchange for sweet gifts and tips. The more carolers come to the house, the more fortune and wealth will be brought to the family the following year, it is believed. The highlight of the celebration is the church service on Christmas Day. Families go to church together to pray and reflect. In summary, Christmas in Ukraine is a time for family, faith, and peace. It is a warm and joyful holiday, and people look forward to spending time with loved ones.