We are used to celebrating this day on January 6th. And the question When Christmas in Ukraine until recently simply did not make sense. However, with the transition to the New Julian calendar, many Orthodox church holidays changed their date and are celebrated on completely different days. In the case of Christmas, this holiday now coincides in dates with the Catholic one. This means that we will celebrate Christmas in Ukraine 2023 on December 25th.
Christmas in Ukraine 2023: date and traditions of the holiday
Christmas is a Christian holiday celebrated in memory of the birth of Jesus Christ. This day is considered one of the most significant and bright events in the Christian tradition. The celebration of Christmas has a specific character in different Christian denominations and countries, but in general it is associated with joy, love, hope and peace.
An important part of celebrating Christmas is a special liturgical ritual, which may include singing Christmas carols, reading the Bible, and preaching about the meaning of Christmas. Many Christians also take part in midnight worship or church services that take place on the night of December 24–25.
One of the symbols of Christmas is the Christmas tree, which is decorated with toys, tinsel, lights and a top. Christmas carols are also widespread – songs sung in honor of the born Savior.
In some countries, Christmas is also considered a family holiday, when families come together to spend time with their loved ones. The celebration of Christmas has become part of the cultural heritage and traditions of many societies, even for those who do not practice Christianity.
In Ukraine, the main festive feast takes place on the evening of December 24 according to the New Julian calendar. This evening is called Holy Eve. Families gather together to share the Yule dinner, which begins after the first star in the sky. There are always 12 dishes on the table, symbolizing the twelve months of the year. One of the traditional dishes is kutya – porridge made from wheat, honey, nuts and poppy seeds.
During Christmas, families also perform carols – songs and dances during which they wish each other a Merry Christmas and ask for blessings. Traditionally, children go from house to house with carols to receive gifts or treats in return.
On the morning of December 25, it is customary to exchange congratulations: “Christ was born – we glorify him.”
History of the origin of the holiday
According to church records, Emperor Augustus of Rome ordered a census, calling on every Jew to register in the place where their ancestors lived. In this regard, the Virgin Mary and her husband Joseph, who came from the family of King David, set off from Nazareth to Bethlehem.
When they arrived, they found the city crowded and there was no room for them. Despite Mary’s pregnancy, the family had to spend the night in a cave used by shepherds to keep livestock. Now this particular cave is called a nativity scene. On the night of the advent, in the hay of this cave, the baby Jesus Christ, the Savior of mankind, was born.
That same evening, an angel of the Lord appeared to the shepherds, telling them about the miracle of birth. The shepherds went to the cave, told Mary and Joseph about this phenomenon, and then bowed to the baby, after which they brought him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
How to celebrate Christmas 2023 in Ukraine
Celebrations of Christmas may vary depending on cultural and religious traditions, but there are several common elements that holiday traditions often include. Here are some ways you can celebrate Christmas:
- Church Services: For many people, Christmas is associated with religious rituals and church services. Participation in church services, including midnight masses or morning services, is an important part of the celebration.
- Family Traditions: Christmas is a great time to create and maintain family traditions. This could include decorating the tree together, cooking holiday treats, watching Christmas movies, or reading Christmas stories.
- Gifts and Gift Exchange: Gift exchange is a common tradition in many countries. Families and friends exchange gifts to express warmth and care. Selecting gifts and exchanging them is a special moment of celebration.
- Holiday Treats: Christmas is a great time to prepare special dishes. Festive dinners, including dishes traditional to your culture, create an atmosphere of warmth and family comfort.
- Home Decoration: Decorating your home with Christmas symbols such as tree decorations, garlands, candles and Christmas decorations helps create a festive atmosphere.
- Activities with children: Include children in holiday activities. This could include making Christmas crafts, cookies, or participating in Christmas games and activities.
- Charity: Christmas is a time of generosity and giving. Donating to charity, participating in charity events, or volunteering can add a special meaning for the festive time.
- Gathering with loved ones: It is important to spend time with family and loved ones. This could include walking together, playing games, drinking tea, or even just talking by the fireplace.
Remember that celebrating Christmas can be unique to each person and depends on individual preferences and family traditions. It is important to create an atmosphere of joy, love and mutual understanding during this special period.