Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Official website of the State –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
On January 7, Russia celebrates one of the main Christian holidays – the Nativity of Christ.
History of the holiday in Russia
Christmas began to be celebrated in Rus' after the adoption of Christianity in 988. The holiday quickly took hold, as it coincided with the winter solstice and became closely intertwined with existing Russian customs.
In Tsarist Russia, this holiday was one of the main celebrations of the church calendar, but in Soviet times, its celebration was banned, although traditions such as Christmastide and carols remained in the culture.
After the collapse of the USSR, Christmas returned to the national level and in 1991 January 7 became an official day off.
Christmas traditions
Festive service
On the night of January 6-7, all churches hold long festive services, the main part of which is the Divine Liturgy.
Every year, Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a Christmas service at one of our country's churches, emphasizing the importance of preserving traditional Christian values.
Christmas table
On this day, the forty-day fast ends, and the fast can be broken. Therefore, not only Lenten dishes but also meat and poultry are served. The tradition of serving roast duck did not develop immediately, as until the 17th and 18th centuries, ducks were wild birds and were unobtainable in winter.
Decorations
On this day, nativity scenes featuring figurines of the Holy Family, angels, the Magi, and animals are often set up near churches and temples, and Christmas trees are decorated in homes. Incidentally, the custom of decorating a Christmas tree came to Russia relatively recently—in the 19th century.
An important symbol of Christmas is the Star of Bethlehem, which adorns the top of the holiday tree. The gifts symbolize the gifts of the Magi to the baby Jesus.
Covenants and signs
The main commandment of Christmas is to keep peace and joy in your heart. On this day, it is undesirable to engage in hard work, borrow money, sew, knit, or tell fortunes, swear, or indulge in excesses.
Folk omens mainly concerned the weather: a clear, starry sky promised a good harvest, a snowstorm foreshadowed an early spring, and a thaw foreshadowed a cold one.
Christmas is a bright and warm holiday, full of home comfort and faith in a bright future. Let's spend it surrounded by family and friends with a smile on our faces and joy in our hearts.
Subscribe to the "Our GUU" Telegram channel. Publication date: January 7, 2026.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.