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In 1917, Christmas was banned throughout Russia. It wasn't until 1992 that Christmas was officially celebrated again across the former Soviet Union.
A dazzling Christmas scene in Moscow.
According to old customs, Russians usually celebrate Christmas over three days, January 7th, 8th, and 9th. On the first day, wives stay home to clean the house and prepare a twelve-course meal, which must include a dessert made from wheat or barley and raisins. Husbands visit relatives, neighbors, and acquaintances. No gifts are exchanged on this first day. On the second day, it's the wives' turn to go out and visit, while the husbands stay home.
Kutya is a dessert made from grains (wheat), raisins, honey, and poppy seeds. In Russian culture, the grains symbolize hope, the honey brings happiness, and the seeds represent peace. Kutya is served together on a single plate to symbolize unity and harmony.
In Russia, Christmas Eve is typically celebrated with a variety of dishes, with the whole family gathered around the table. Some families even set aside a place for deceased family members.
The food served at Christmas parties varies from region to region, but the most traditional menu consists of 12 dishes, symbolizing the 12 apostles of Jesus.
1. Kutya
2. Pagach is a large loaf of bread.
3. Zaprashka soup contains onions, flour, and mushrooms.
4. Garlic
5. Honey
6. Grilled cod or other types of fish.
7. Fresh or dried fruit.
8. The fruit of happiness.
9. Meat, rice, and black beans.
10. Peas or lentils.
11. Soup cooked with potatoes.
12. Bobalki (Cooked with seeds or cabbage)
To this day, these customs are still embraced by Orthodox Christians and most Russians as an occasion to welcome the new year and express care and affection for those around them.
Despite differences from many other countries, Christmas remains one of the main holidays for Orthodox Russians.
Some beautiful images of Christmas in Russia.
