This year, the PCU has switched to the New Lanish calendar, which influenced the date of many Christian holidays, including Christmas. From now on, the PCC and UGCC believers will celebrate Christmas on December 25. Ethnologist Natalia Gromova told about traditions that accompanied the preparation and celebration of Christmas in the past.
For Ukrainians, Christmas has always been an extremely family holiday, and rituals were usually held in a narrow family circle. It was important that on this day all relatives gather at one table, and all family members were together. Probably, the absence of at least one family member can take the whole family, according to popular beliefs.
Among the rites for Christmas was forbidden to quarrel, even if conflicts occurred, it was important to keep emotions under control. There were also special rituals aimed at providing order in the family for next year.
Trees and other regional rites played a role in preparing for celebration. The house should be clean, cleaned and decorated with hay or straw. The traditional grandfather, who symbolized fertility, played an important role in the festive decor. Ethnic vytinanka and towels also add a special color to Ukrainian Christmas.
All these traditions, which were determined by past generations, add special content and atmosphere of Christmas in Ukraine.
