Russia, a land of vast landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers a unique perspective on the Christmas season. Unlike many Western countries, the primary Christmas celebration in Russia unfolds on January 7th, a consequence of the Russian Orthodox Church’s adherence to the Julian calendar, which lags 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar used by much of the world. However, the festive spirit isn’t confined to this single date. The New Year, observed on January 1st, often takes center stage, and many Russians embrace a dual celebration, acknowledging Christmas on December 25th as well, reflecting a blend of tradition and modern influences. This creates a prolonged period of merriment and unique cultural experiences for visitors eager to immerse themselves in Russian holiday customs. Therefore, it is wise to check the Russian Christmas date before planning a visit.
The prominent New Year’s trees, adorning public spaces like Moscow’s iconic Red Square, serve as potent symbols of the New Year rather than Christmas itself. These towering evergreens, glittering with lights and ornaments, create a magical ambiance throughout the holiday season.
Russian Christmas Religious Observances
The 20th century witnessed a significant shift in Russia’s religious landscape. During the Soviet era, the public celebration of Christmas was effectively banned as the country embraced communism and atheism. Consequently, the religious significance of the holiday waned among many Russians. However, the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 marked a resurgence of religious observance, with an increasing number of Russians returning to their faith, primarily Russian Orthodoxy. As a result, the celebration of Christmas as a religious holiday has been steadily growing, reclaiming its place in the cultural fabric of the nation.
The religious traditions surrounding Russian Christmas share similarities with those found in other parts of Eastern Europe. Drawing parallels with Polish customs, some Russian families spread hay on their floors and tables, symbolizing the manger where Jesus was born. A pristine white tablecloth is then draped over the hay, representing the swaddling clothes that enveloped the infant Jesus.
The Advent period leading up to Christmas is often marked by fasting, a practice observed by many Orthodox Christians. This fast is traditionally broken on Christmas Eve with the appearance of the first star in the night sky, a moment of great anticipation and spiritual significance.
A pivotal event in the Russian Orthodox Christmas celebration is the Christmas Eve church service. These services, held throughout the country, are attended by devout members of the Orthodox Church. The solemn and beautiful services, often held in grand cathedrals, are a testament to the enduring faith of the Russian people. Even prominent political figures, such as President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, have been known to attend these services in Moscow, highlighting the renewed importance of religion in Russian society.
Christmas Foods
The Christmas Eve meal, marking the culmination of the Nativity Fast, is a feast for the senses. Traditionally, this meal is meatless, adhering to the restrictions of the fast, and is often comprised of twelve distinct dishes, each representing one of the twelve apostles. Lenten bread, dipped in honey and garlic, is shared among family members, symbolizing unity and fellowship.
Kutya, a cherished dish in Russian Christmas cuisine, takes center stage during the Christmas feast. This sweet and savory concoction combines grains, such as wheat or barley, with poppy seeds and honey, creating a unique and flavorful dish that is both satisfying and symbolic.
Vegetarian-style borscht, often referred to as solyanka, is another staple of the Christmas Eve meal. This salty and tangy stew can be prepared with a variety of ingredients, including salads, sauerkraut, dried fruit, potatoes, and beans, offering a diverse and flavorful culinary experience.
The Christmas Day meal, in contrast to the meatless Christmas Eve feast, is a celebration of abundance and indulgence. The main course often features pork, goose, or another meat dish, prepared with traditional Russian spices and techniques. These hearty meat dishes are accompanied by a variety of side dishes, such as aspic, stuffed pies, and an array of desserts in various forms, showcasing the richness and diversity of Russian cuisine.
The Russian Santa Claus
The Russian equivalent of Santa Claus is known as Ded Moroz, which translates to Father Frost. He is a beloved figure in Russian folklore and a central character in New Year’s celebrations. On New Year’s Eve, Ded Moroz fulfills the role of gift-giver, placing presents for children under the New Year tree, which serves as the focal point of the festivities.
Accompanying Ded Moroz is Snegurochka, a snow maiden who is said to be his granddaughter. She is a charming and graceful figure who adds to the festive atmosphere of the holiday season.
Ded Moroz is typically depicted carrying a magical staff and wearing a long coat in colors of red, blue, silver, or gold, all trimmed with white fur. He also wears valenki, traditional felt boots made of wool, providing warmth and comfort in the winter months.
Unlike the Western Santa Claus, who is often portrayed as a jolly, rotund figure, Ded Moroz is typically tall and thin. Instead of traveling by sleigh pulled by reindeer, he travels across Russia in a troika, a vehicle pulled by three horses, adding a distinct Russian flair to the holiday tradition.
To witness Ded Moroz in person, visitors can head to any major Russian city during the holiday season. For a truly immersive experience, Moscow’s Russian Winter Festival offers a spectacular celebration featuring Old Man Frost himself. Visitors can indulge in traditional treats like bagels and jam, marvel at gigantic ice sculptures, and even take a ride in a troika.
Russian Christmastide
Svyatki, or Russian Christmastide, is a two-week period following Christmas that is deeply intertwined with pagan traditions of fortune telling and caroling. This festive period lasts until January 19th, when Epiphany is celebrated.
Epiphany marks the baptism of Jesus and is commemorated by people diving into the country’s icy rivers and lakes, a symbolic act of purification and renewal.
Christmas Gifts From Russia
For those seeking unique and memorable Christmas gifts from Russia, nesting dolls and Russian lacquer boxes are excellent choices. These iconic souvenirs can be found in various locations throughout Russia, including Izmaylovo Market and Revolution Square in Moscow, particularly during the Russian Winter Festival. Souvenir shops throughout the country also offer a wide selection of these beloved gifts. Alternatively, these Russian treasures can be purchased online for those who prefer the convenience of online shopping.
