Traditions of Christmas in Russia

Traditions for the celebration of Christmas in Russia have been around for a long time. This holiday appeared in the 10th century. It was in this century that Rus adopted Christianity. Before that time, it was pagan. Until the end, not abandoning the pagan rites and traditions, the people introduced some of them into the Christian tradition of celebrating Christmas.

Christmas Eve is called Christmas Eve. The holiday itself is preceded by fasting, during which Christians eat only fast food and do not allow any excesses. In the evening on Christmas Eve, food is not eaten until the first star appears in the sky. Only after that all sit down at the table to taste kutya - sweet rice porridge. As folk tales and legends say, on Christmas Eve two forces try to take possession of man: the power of good and evil. If the power took the upper hand, the person celebrated the birth of Christ, sang Christmas carols and sat at the festive table. Otherwise, he went to the coven to the witches.

Usually in Russia on Christmas Eve lit bonfires. They symbolized the sun and rebirth, as well as victory over the dark forces. Such Christmas traditions in Russia once again confirm that there is a note of pagan rites in them. It is impossible not to mention such a tradition of Christmas in Russia, as a rich holiday table. After a long abstinence, it was possible to indulge in gluttony. Christmas table was abundant. Everyone tried to invite visitors to the house and treat them. All those coming to caroling were treated to pies and sweets. No man should have left without food. These are the traditions of Christmas in Russia. Today, not so strictly observe the traditions of the Christmas feast. Many do not even know which dishes should be present on the table. In ancient times this moment was given very great attention.

Despite the fact that many people came to the house, Christmas Eve and the holiday itself were considered family. Therefore, the whole family was preparing for him. Together lay the festive table, necessarily placing a straw under the tablecloth. It was an attribute of well-being and a rich harvest. In addition, it is one of the symbols of the birth of Christ, who was born in a manger. The most important dish was kutya, which was placed in the center of the table. In addition to her, there were also twelve different dishes on the table. It was jellied, roast, jelly, fried pig, fish, sausage of own preparation, a pork head, gingerbread and various sweets. We drank at the table a bouquet, homemade beer, wine, a brew and other drinks made at home. These Christmas traditions in Russia have survived to this day. However, many already do not know the recipes for preparing these dishes and have never even tried them.

New Year is no less popular holiday. It is widely celebrated throughout the country. Usually they cover rich tables and prepare the best dishes. Many hope and plans for the future are connected with this holiday. And that's why there are some New Year's signs in Russia and other countries.
Of course, the main feature is the guessing of desires for the chiming clock. There are several ways to do this. Some pre-record desire on a napkin, and while they chime, burn it, pour the ashes into champagne and drink it.

New Year and Christmas are magical holidays. No wonder they are so fond of children. Each person sums up the results of the past year and believes that in the new year all desires and plans will come true. Traditions of Christmas in Russia have their own characteristics, but are similar in general sense to its celebration in other countries. If we talk about Christians, then all people and all nations celebrate the birth of Christ to some extent. This is one of the main holidays for all Christians. They observe their traditions and believe in their signs.