Christmas in Russia: A Celebration of Faith, Tradition, and Warmth
In this post we’ll look at Christmas in Russia, Рождество. First we’ll learn about religious observances related to the Russian Orthodox Church. Then we’ll learn about family customs and traditions related to the holiday. Next, we’ll learn about the festive foods Russians enjoy during the holiday season. Finally, we’ll learn about some folkloric figures associated with Christmas in Russian.
Russians celebrate Christmas on January 7th, and the holidays holds a special place in the hearts of Russians as a deeply religious and cultural holiday. Rooted in the Orthodox Christian faith, Russian Christmas combines solemn religious observances with joyous traditions, vibrant customs, and delicious food, creating a unique and unforgettable festive atmosphere.
Religious Observances of Christmas in Russia
The Russian Orthodox church follows the Julian calendar. This place Russian Christmas 13 days after December 25th on the Gregorian calendar, which is January 7th. The celebration begins with a period of fasting known as Рождественский пост (Nativity Fast). This begins on November 28 and lasts 40 days, culminating on Christmas Eve. The fast is not a fast from all foods, of course. Meat, dairy products, eggs, and sometimes fish are all prohibited, as are oil and wine on many days. On the strictest days of the fast, Russians follow a basic vegan diet. But fish is typically permitted on weekends.
On Christmas Eve, devout Russians attend the Божественная Литургия (Divine Liturgy), held in magnificently adorned churches. One of the most famous services takes place at the Храм Христа Спасителя (the Cathedral of Christ the Savior) in Moscow. The Патриарх (Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church) leads this service. It includes choral singing, the lighting of candles, and readings from the Bible, creating a spiritual and contemplative atmosphere.
Traditional Celebrations and Customs
Christmas in Russia is a time for family and community. On Сочельник (Christmas Eve), families gather for a special meal and reflect on the meaning of the holiday. Many follow the tradition of eating кутья, a porridge made of wheat or barley mixed with honey, poppy seeds, and dried fruits. This dish symbolizes hope, health, and prosperity.
Another cherished custom is колядки, where groups of people dress in traditional costumes, sing carols, and visit homes in the neighborhood. This practice, similar to caroling in the West, often includes reciting poems or performing small plays depicting scenes from the Nativity story.
Festive Foods
After weeks of fasting, Christmas Day is a time to indulge in a grand feast. Russian tables are laden with dishes that reflect the country’s rich culinary traditions. Some of the most popular Christmas dishes include:
- Гусь с яблоками: Roast goose with apples, a centerpiece dish that signifies abundance.
- Пельмени: Dumplings filled with meat, often served with sour cream.
- Салат Оливье: A Russian potato salad made with boiled vegetables, pickles, and mayonnaise.
- Холодец: Aspic made from meat broth, a unique and traditional treat.
- Взвар: A sweet beverage made from dried fruits, honey, and spices, often served warm.
Desserts like пряники (gingerbread cookies), and кулич, a sweet bread, add sweetness to the celebrations.
The Spirit of Christmas in Russia
Christmas in Russia emphasizes family, faith, and generosity. The holiday also features Дед Мороз (Grandfather Frost), a figure similar to Santa Claus. He brings gifts to children, often with the help of his granddaughter, Снегурочка, (the Snow Maiden).
The Christmas season extends to Старый Новый Год, or Old New Year, celebrated on January 14th. This offers an additional opportunity for festivities.
Russian Christmas is a magical blend of religious devotion, heartfelt traditions, and delicious food. Whether attending midnight liturgies, savoring traditional dishes, or enjoying the warmth of family gatherings, the holiday captures the essence of Russian culture and spirit. If you’d like to share the share the joy of Russian Christmas, just say С Рождеством! (Merry Christmas!)
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