English blog

Ukraine is one of the few countries in the world where two Christmas Eve celebrations are celebrated.  The first, Catholic, is traditionally celebrated on December 24, and Orthodox on January 6.  Regardless of the date, however, this special day is called in our neighbors Sviat Vetch, Bahat Vetch, Bahata Kutia, or Wilija.  Christmas Eve in Ukraine is celebrated similarly to ours.  There is a tradition of sharing Prosfora (a holy bun made of unleavened bread), which acts as our wafer.  The tradition of 12 dishes for Christmas Eve is also practiced in most homes.  According to old applications, one should also put a head of garlic on each corner of the table to ward off evil spirits, and the supper must not be missing bread - a symbol of food, garlic - a symbol of health, salt - a sign of abundance, and honey - fortune-telling success.