The tradition of celebrating Christmas in Russia has been around for quite some time. This holiday appeared in the X century. It was in this century that Russia adopted Christianity. Until that time, she was pagan. Without completely abandoning pagan rites and traditions, the people introduced some of them into the Christian traditions of the celebration of Christmas.
Christmas Eve is called Christmas Eve. The holiday itself is preceded by a fast during which Christians eat only fast food and do not allow any excesses. On Christmas Eve, they don’t eat food until the first star appears in the sky. Only after that everyone sits down at the table to taste kutia - sweet rice porridge. According to popular signs and legends, on Christmas Eve two forces are trying to take possession of man: the power of good and evil. If the power of good prevailed, then the person celebrated the birth of Christ, sang carols and sat at the festive table. Otherwise, he went on a Sabbath to the witches.
Usually in Russia, bonfires were lit on Christmas Eve. They symbolized the sun and rebirth, as well as a victory over dark forces. Such Christmas traditions in Russia once again confirm that they have a note of pagan rites. We cannot but mention such a tradition of Christmas in Russia as a rich holiday table. After a long abstinence, one could indulge in gluttony. The Christmas table was plentiful. Everyone tried to invite guests to the house and treat them. All those who came to carol were treated to pies and sweets. Not a single person should have left without refreshments. These are the traditions of Christmas in Russia. Today, the traditions of the Christmas feast are not so strictly observed. Many do not even know which dishes must be present on the table. In ancient times, very much attention was paid to this moment.
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 it. Together they laid a festive table, be sure to put straw under the tablecloth. It was an attribute of prosperity and a rich harvest. In addition, this is one of the symbols of the birth of Christ, who was born in a manger. The most important dish was kutia, which was placed in the center of the table. In addition to her, there were twelve different dishes on the table. It was aspic, roast, jelly, roasted pig, fish, home-made sausage, pork head, gingerbread cookies and various sweets. We drank beer at the table, home-made beer, wine, boil and other drinks made at home. These Christmas traditions in Russia have survived to the present day. However, many already do not know the recipes for these dishes and have never even tried them.
New Year is no less popular holiday. It is widely celebrated throughout the country. They usually set up rich tables and cook the very best dishes. Many people associate new hopes and plans for the future with this holiday. And therefore, there are some New Year omens in Russia and other countries.
Of course, the main sign can be called making wishes under the chiming clock. There are several options for how to do this. Some pre-record the desire on a napkin, and while they hit the chimes, burn it, pour the ashes into champagne and drink it.
New Year and Christmas are magical holidays. No wonder the children love them so much. Each person sums up the results of the past year and believes that in the new year all wishes and plans will come true. The 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 to one degree or another celebrate the birth of Christ. This is one of the main holidays for all Christians. They observe their traditions and believe in their signs.