9 DIFFERENCES YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT UKRAINIAN CHRISTMAS
Ukrainian Christmas is full of unique traditions that set it apart from how Christmas is observed in many other countries. While Christmas in Ukraine shares some similarities with other Christian traditions, there are key differences that make the celebration distinctly Ukrainian. Here are 9 ways Ukrainian Christmas stands out.
1. Ukraine's Shift to December 25th Christmas Celebration
In Ukraine, Christmas was traditionally celebrated on January 7th, following the Julian calendar. However, in recent years, many Ukrainians have shifted to celebrating it on December 25th, aligning with the Gregorian calendar. This change reflects a desire to unify the celebration date among different Christian denominations in Ukraine and to distance the country from russian influence. The move to December 25th is seen as a step towards greater national identity and independence.
2. A Christmas Eve Vigil
Unlike in many countries where Christmas celebrations begin on Christmas Day, in Ukraine, the main focus is on Christmas Eve. On this night, families gather for Sviata Vecheria (Holy Supper), a special meal that includes twelve dishes and marks the culmination of the Christmas fast. It is a time for reflection, prayer, and spending time with loved ones, making Christmas Eve the heart of the holiday in Ukraine. The Christmas day itself is more about visiting relatives, resting, and enjoying the extended festivities.
Photo: Sviata Vecheria
3. A Twelve-Dish Feast
In contrast to a typical Christmas meal, which might feature a turkey or ham, Ukrainians celebrate Sviata Vecheria (Holy Supper) with twelve traditional meatless dishes. Each dish symbolizes one of the twelve apostles, and the meal is often centered around kutia (a sweet wheat dish), borscht, varenyky (dumplings), and other vegetarian dishes. This reflects the fasting tradition leading up to the holiday.
Photo: A Twelve-Dish Feast
4. The First Star Marks the Start of the Celebration
Unlike other places where Christmas begins with midnight Mass or at the stroke of midnight, Ukrainians wait for the first star to appear in the sky before starting their Christmas dinner. The appearance of the star symbolizes the Star of Bethlehem and marks the beginning of the celebration.
5. Kolady (Caroling) is a Big Deal
Caroling is an essential part of Ukrainian Christmas, but it’s different from the typical Christmas caroling found in many countries. In Ukraine, groups of people, especially children, go from house to house singing kolyadky (Christmas carols) that tell the story of Christ’s birth and feature elements of folklore. In return, they are given treats, money, or small gifts. This tradition is an important social activity during the Christmas period.
6. Didukh – A Symbol of Ancestry and Harvest
While many countries decorate with Christmas trees, Ukrainians have a unique tradition of placing a Didukh (a sheaf of wheat) in their home. This symbolizes the harvest, the family’s ancestors, and the spirit of their forebears. The Didukh is placed near the Christmas table before the meal begins, adding a deep cultural and spiritual meaning to the celebration.
Photo: Didukh
7. Vertep – A Traditional Puppet Theater
In Ukraine, one of the most unique traditions associated with Christmas is the vertep, a folk puppet theater that depicts the nativity story. The vertep is often performed by traveling groups who set up small stages in homes or public spaces. This theatrical tradition brings the story of Christ’s birth to life and is an entertaining and educational part of the holiday celebrations.
Photo: Vertep
8. A Quiet Christmas Day
While Christmas Day is often marked by grand celebrations and large family gatherings in other countries, Ukrainian Christmas Day is usually quieter. After the festive Christmas Eve dinner, many Ukrainians spend the day visiting relatives, resting, and enjoying the continued holiday spirit, rather than having a big feast or party.
9. St. Vasyl’s Day Extends the Celebrations
In addition to Christmas, Ukrainians celebrate St. Vasyl’s Day on January 14th. This day marks the feast of St. Basil the Great and is an extension of the Christmas festivities. It includes its own set of traditions, such as special meals, visiting relatives, and giving New Year’s greetings. This day adds an extra layer of celebration to the holiday season in Ukraine.
Ukrainian Christmas is filled with rich traditions that reflect the country’s deep history and cultural identity. If you ever have the chance to experience Ukrainian Christmas, you’ll be immersed in a celebration full of warmth, family, and deep spiritual meaning.