Christmas In Russia – The Real Snow Wonderland

Russia is a land of many wonders. The largest landmass on earth is home to beautiful towns, natural wonders, and festivals. Out of all the festive celebrations, Christmas is the most important. Christmas celebrations in Russia see a random departure from the rest of the world. Although the Russian Orthodox Church has made it an official holiday, there are many facts that people worldwide are unaware of. Here, we will discuss how Russian Christmas Celebrations are different and why.

Russian Christmas Falls on January 7th

Yes, you have heard it right, the Russians celebrate Christmas on January 7th instead of December 25th. However, it was not always that the celebrations were carried out on the aforementioned date. Orthodox Christmas, as the festival is known, has been one of the most important celebrations in the country since 1992. The festivities began on November 28th to January 6th. During this time, the people of Russia observe fast and on the night of January 6th, visit the “Nightlong Vigil” and pray all night.

Preparing For The Festivities With A Large Scale Dinner

Christmas in Russia is mostly celebrated according to the old Julian Calendar. What makes it different from the Gregorian Calendar used in the West is the gap of 13 days. Also, the celebrations in the country center around family, unlike gifts and Santa Claus. According to the legend, “Ded Moroz” or Father Frost, along with his granddaughter “Snegurochka” or “Snow Maiden,” visit on January 1st and bring gifts. Thus the holiday period in Russia starts from the New Year and goes on till January 10th. Traditional dishes like Pagach or Lenten Bread and Kutya are served and relished by all members of the family. Other dishes are Kulebyaka, baked fish and meat, and a fruit dessert popularly known as Pastila.

Indulging in Fortune Telling

One of the most popular traditions during Christmas in Russia is Fortune Telling. The whole time from January 6th-19th is called “Svyatki” or Holy and has deeply pagan roots. Many Slavic folks believed that during this time, spirits ran wild and hence helped guess the future. Other favored fortunes-telling rituals are melting the wax and then predicting the destiny according to the wax formations, burning the paper, and laying out cards. Apart from this, some Russians also write plans for the next year in advance!

Visiting Loved Ones

Orthodox Christmas in Russia falls on January 7th, and the state holidays are observed from New Year till January 10th. During this time, it is customary for the people of the country to visit their relatives with symbolic gifts. Also, on Christmas Eve, families settle for a modest dinner instead of noisy parties. There is a stark difference in gift items also. People like exchanging tea and sweets with other household items like textiles and photo albums.

Places To Visit in Russia During Christmas

All those who have never been to the country amidst the Christmas Celebrations are leaving out a great deal of experience. Russia, or the Real Snow Wonderland as it is called, is decked up beautifully during Christmas or S Rojdestvom! Major cities like Moscow and St Petersburg are brightly illuminated to welcome the festive fervor. Even ancient places like Yaroslavl, Suzdal, Kazan, and Novgorod pull out amazing markets to showcase unique celebrations. Starting from the lights, the citadel, cathedral, squares, and marketplaces run high with festive spirits, which make the country a true spectacle of bliss.

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