Today, Ukraine and the world celebrate one of the most important holidays - Christmas. Find out why this day is special for Ukrainians, what traditions are worth preserving, and what not to do today

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This year, Ukraine officially celebrates Christmas for the first time on December 25. And despite the postponement of the celebration, Christmas has been and remains one of the most important holidays for the Ukrainian people. And one of the most important roles here is played not only by the sacred meaning of this day, but also by family traditions that Ukrainians have been keeping for centuries.

Why is Christmas a special holiday in Ukraine?

First of all, Christmas is a day when the whole family should gather around the festive table. That's why the traditional 12 dishes are so important in Ukraine, as they remind us of the importance of family unity, belief in goodness and light, and spiritual purification. And given the fact that a large number of Ukrainians are now abroad, and military personnel are at the front, the desire to gather everyone in a family circle is especially acute.

But the realities of the past two years are not the only obstacle that has made Christmas an important day for Ukrainians. After all, the events of today were preceded by centuries of oppression, soviets, expulsions, and emigration. That is why the desire to preserve their own unique traditions is deeply rooted in the minds of people who have been suppressed and destroyed for centuries. And even after centuries of torture, Ukrainians are still free to choose how, when, and what to celebrate, even in times of war.

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How do Ukrainians celebrate Christmas and what do they do on this day?

We have described in detail the traditions of Christmas celebration, special dishes, customs and entertainment in Ukraine here, but every family has its own little traditions that are passed down to children from generation to generation.

At the same time, the main feature of this day is that Ukrainians celebrate Christmas not by someone else's order, but by the dictates of their hearts. And given that this is a holiday of peace, kindness and mercy, it is customary to help those in need on this day. And it is especially important to do even small acts of kindness in such a dark and difficult time for the country.

What shouldn't you do on Christmas?

Even if you don't believe in superstitions or omens, it's important to follow at least one simple rule that will help you spend this day in a special way. And the only thing you really shouldn't do is quarrel with your family and friends. Take care of the special atmosphere that Christmas brings to every home. And even if your loved ones are not around right now, don't give up on your family traditions, because the Internet and modern technology make it possible, if not to see, then at least to hear or read important words from a loved one on this special day.

And, in fact, it doesn't matter whether you celebrate Christmas on December 25 or January 7, because this will not change the date of Jesus Christ's birth or the global significance of this holiday. What matters is how you feel inside and whether you share the sacred meaning and special spirit of Christmas that this holiday is filled with. 

Coziness, harmony and family warmth are what we must preserve in our homes, despite all the difficulties and troubles. And most importantly, we must pass on the sacred meaning and traditions of Christmas to our children, just as our ancestors have done for centuries.

May inner strength and hope come to your home with the Christmas star, as they will help us to survive in dark times.

Merry Christmas!

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