Fun Facts about Christmas in Russia
Did you know that Russian Christmas is celebrated on January 7th instead of December 25th?
In Russia, Christmas is considered a more religious holiday rather than a commercial one.
Russian Christmas traditions are influenced by the Orthodox Church and have a rich historical background.
Russians traditionally fast throughout the Christmas Eve until the first star appears in the sky.
Instead of Santa Claus, Russian children look forward to the arrival of Ded Moroz (Father Frost).
Ded Moroz carries a magical staff and is accompanied by his granddaughter, Snegurochka (Snow Maiden).
Russian families exchange gifts on New Year’s Eve rather than on Christmas Day.
Christmas Eve in Russia is known as Svyatki and is associated with fortune-telling and divination.
Traditional Russian Christmas food includes dishes like borscht, pickled herring, and kutya (a sweet wheat porridge).
Children in Russia often participate in Nutcracker plays during the Christmas season.
Christmas trees are a popular decoration in Russian homes during the holiday season.
It is believed that animals can speak human language on Christmas Eve, according to a Russian folk belief.
Russian churches hold special Christmas liturgies, and many people attend a midnight Mass service.
In some parts of Russia, people go to the banya (sauna) on Christmas Eve to cleanse themselves before the holiday.
Russian Orthodox Christians observe a significant period of fasting before Christmas, similar to Lent.
Fun Facts about Christmas in Russia part 2
Christmas carols, called kolyadki in Russia, are sung by children and adults during the holiday season.
In Moscow, a huge ice rink is set up at Red Square, attracting both locals and tourists during Christmas.
On Christmas, Russians commonly greet each other by saying С Рождеством! (S Roždestvom!), meaning Merry Christmas!
Russians believe that if you see a shooting star on Christmas Eve, your wishes will come true.
Traditional Russian Christmas decorations include ornaments made from straw, paper, and wood.
Some Russian towns hold special winter fairs and markets during the Christmas season.
Russians often attend midnight liturgies, followed by feasting and celebrations with family and friends.
It is traditional for Russians to visit cemeteries on Christmas Day to pay respects to deceased family members.
A story goes that Baboushka, an old woman, declined to join the three Wise Men on their journey to visit Baby Jesus.
Baboushka later regretted her decision and tried to find Jesus, visiting children along the way, giving them gifts.
The story of Baboushka is often told to children in Russian households during Christmas time.
In St. Petersburg, the Hermitage Museum is beautifully decorated during the Christmas season, attracting many visitors.
Russian Christmas cards often feature winter and religious-themed illustrations.
Russian Christmas markets offer traditional food, crafts, and unique gifts for visitors.
Snow is a common theme in Russian Christmas decorations, symbolizing the winter season.
In some regions of Russia, people light bonfires on Christmas Eve to symbolize the warmth and light of Christ’s birth.
Russian Christmas stockings are often hand-knit and filled with small gifts and sweets.
People gather around the table during Christmas dinner to enjoy a festive feast with family and friends.
In some villages, people dress up as Biblical characters and act out the Christmas story during traditional pageants.
In the city of Yaroslavl, a festival called Shrovetide marks the end of the Christmas season with games, music, and dancing.
Russian Christmas trees are often adorned with handmade decorations, including painted wooden ornaments.
The Russian city of Veliky Ustyug is believed to be the official residence of Ded Moroz.
Russians often exchange homemade presents, showcasing their creativity and craftsmanship.
Children leave out a shoe or a stocking on Christmas Eve, hoping that Ded Moroz will fill it with gifts.
Russian Christmas is a time for family gatherings and reconnecting with loved ones.
Russian Orthodox priests often bless homes during the Christmas season, offering prayers for health and prosperity.
Russians believe that the first person to enter their home after midnight on Christmas should bring good luck for the upcoming year.
Russians place hay under the tablecloth during Christmas dinner to remind them of the humble stable where Jesus was born.
Christmas in Russia is celebrated for a total of 12 days, leading up to the Feast of the Epiphany on January 19th.
Russian Christmas is a time for reflection, gratitude, and spreading joy to others.