Ukrainian Christmas Celebrations Amidst War
Despite the ongoing conflict, Ukrainian traditions and celebrations continue to play a vital role in the lives of people. The photo above shows a kindergarten performance for New Year's Eve, with air raid sirens interrupting their peaceful celebration. Despite the tragic reality, all the kids are familiar with the air sirens and their implications. On December 27th, Ukraine faced another deadly missile attack, killing 31 people and injuring 160, including children. This destruction has not only affected lives but also their holiday preparations and celebrations.
Fasting and Traditions
Since November 29th until the night before Christmas, Ukrainians undergo the Great Christmas Fasting. This fasting is a complex ritual where hot meals are consumed only on Monday, avoiding oil or butter; on Tuesday, dry foods are eaten; on Wednesday, fish is consumed; and on Thursday, fish is again eaten, followed by hot meals with oil and butter on Saturday and Sunday. During this period, no meat, alcohol, or dancing and singing is permitted. On the night before Christmas, the fast can be broken.
Items commonly associated with fasting include vegetables, sunflower oil, dry bread, and salt. On the evening before Christmas, families gather around the table and a traditional Christmas meal is served. The main dish is kutya, a ceremonial grain dish with sweet gravy. It resembles a rich bowl of porridge with honey and is a significant part of the celebration.
Christmas Day and Caroling
On Christmas morning, Ukrainians attend church to listen to the Christmas Mass. Traditions also involve caroling, where carolers visit houses singing traditional Ukrainian carols. One of the most popular songs is Shedryk, more commonly known as "The Carol of the Bells," composed by Ukrainian composer Mykola Leontovych in 1919. Carolers are often rewarded with treats such as bread, sausage, money, or other good things, similar to what Americans do on Halloween.
Didukh and Christmas Bush
A key element of the Ukrainian Christmas table is the didukh, a traditional decoration representing the ancestors. This is accompanied by a beautifully adorned Christmas tree, decorated with symbols and offerings for the New Year.
Despite the War
Although these traditions offer moments of joy and unity amidst the chaos of war, it is important to note the solemnity of these celebrations. The phrase, "That's how Ukrainians celebrate their holidays. Waiting for Russia's ballistic missiles," highlights the grim reality of daily life for many Ukrainians.
The tragedy of the war is evident in the comparison: with just 1.27 billion, Russia could have built 20 hospitals or 120 schools instead of destroying homes, schools, and hospitals. This stark contrast underscores the values held by the Ukrainian people and their resilience in the face of adversity.
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