When Is Christmas in Russia 2022?
Christmas is a festive and joyous occasion celebrated by people all around the world, and Russia is no exception. However, the date of Christmas in Russia differs from that of many other countries due to the country’s historical and cultural background. In this article, we will explore when Christmas is celebrated in Russia in 2022, along with some frequently asked questions about this holiday.
In Russia, Christmas is celebrated on January 7th. This date is determined by the Orthodox Christian Church, which follows the Julian calendar rather than the Gregorian calendar used in most Western countries. The Julian calendar, created by Julius Caesar in 45 BC, has a 13-day difference with the Gregorian calendar. As a result, Christmas in Russia is celebrated 13 days later than the majority of the Christian world.
The reason for this discrepancy can be traced back to historical events. In 1918, after the Russian Revolution, the country adopted the Gregorian calendar to align itself with the rest of Europe. However, the Russian Orthodox Church continued to follow the Julian calendar for religious purposes. As a result, Christmas in Russia shifted to January 7th, while New Year’s Day remained on January 1st.
Now, let’s address some frequently asked questions about Christmas in Russia:
1. Why is Christmas celebrated on January 7th in Russia?
As mentioned earlier, Christmas in Russia is celebrated on January 7th due to the use of the Julian calendar by the Russian Orthodox Church. This calendar is based on an older version of the Roman calendar, which had a different calculation for leap years and resulted in a 13-day difference compared to the Gregorian calendar.
2. Is Christmas a public holiday in Russia?
Yes, Christmas is a public holiday in Russia. It is widely celebrated throughout the country, and people often have time off from work and school to spend with their families and loved ones.
3. How do Russians celebrate Christmas?
Russians celebrate Christmas with a mix of religious traditions and cultural customs. People attend church services, exchange gifts, sing carols, and enjoy festive meals with family and friends. Some also participate in the tradition of “star singers,” where children dress up as the biblical characters and visit houses, singing songs and collecting treats.
4. Are there any unique Russian Christmas traditions?
Yes, there are several unique Russian Christmas traditions. For example, it is common to celebrate the “Holy Supper,” a special meal eaten on Christmas Eve. The meal typically includes 12 dishes, symbolizing the 12 apostles. Another tradition is to light a candle in the window as a sign of welcoming the Christmas spirit into the home.
5. Do Russians also celebrate New Year’s Day?
Yes, Russians also celebrate New Year’s Day on January 1st. New Year’s celebrations in Russia are often more elaborate and grand compared to Christmas celebrations. It is a time for fireworks, parties, gift-giving, and festive decorations.
6. Do Russians have a Santa Claus figure?
In Russia, the equivalent of Santa Claus is known as Ded Moroz, which translates to “Grandfather Frost.” Ded Moroz is often depicted as a tall, bearded man wearing a long coat and a fur hat. He travels with his granddaughter, Snegurochka, who helps him deliver presents to children.
7. Are there any specific Christmas dishes in Russia?
Yes, there are several traditional Christmas dishes in Russia. One popular dish is Kutya, a sweet porridge made from wheat berries, honey, and poppy seeds. Another favorite is Olivier salad, a hearty salad made with boiled potatoes, carrots, peas, pickles, and mayonnaise. Additionally, many households bake a festive cake called “kulebyaka” filled with fish, mushrooms, and rice.
In conclusion, Christmas in Russia is celebrated on January 7th, following the Julian calendar used by the Russian Orthodox Church. It is a time of religious observance, family gatherings, and festive traditions. By understanding the unique historical and cultural aspects of Christmas in Russia, we can appreciate the diversity and richness of this global holiday.