Origin & history
Orthodox Christmas in Russia originates from the adoption of Christianity in 988 AD under Prince Vladimir the Great. The Russian Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar, resulting in Christmas falling on January 7th, while the Western Church celebrates on December 25th. After the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917, Christmas was suppressed due to state atheism, but it was revived as an official holiday in 1991 after the fall of the Soviet Union.
Customs & traditions
On Orthodox Christmas Eve (January 6th), many Russians observe a strict fast until the first star appears, then enjoy a traditional twelve-dish meal symbolizing the twelve apostles. The central dish is kutya, a sweet grain pudding made with wheat, poppy seeds, and honey. Families often attend a solemn midnight Mass, and churches are filled with candlelight and carols.
During Christmas day, people greet each other with 'Christ is born!' and respond 'Glorify Him!' Gift-giving is more common at New Year's, but children may receive small presents. Some families decorate Christmas trees and engage in caroling or visiting relatives. In modern Russia, the holiday has regained religious significance, though many traditions blend with secular New Year celebrations.
Why it is celebrated
Orthodox Christmas is celebrated as the birth of Jesus Christ, the most important event in Christian theology after Easter. For Russian Orthodox believers, it is a time for spiritual reflection, prayer, and family unity. The holiday also represents a cultural revival of pre-Soviet traditions and an expression of national identity.