New Year's Day, celebrated on the first day of January, is a significant holiday in Ukraine, sharing many similarities with Christmas traditions in other countries. The buildup to the New Year is filled with euphoria, with parties kicking off a few days before December 31. Everywhere, especially in the capital, Kiev, decorations and illuminations transform the country into a winter wonderland, with snow adding an extra touch of magic.
Ukrainians prepare for New Year's Day with high spirits, organizing big feasts filled with traditional foods like varenyky (dumplings), borsch (beetroot soup), and the twelve-dish Christmas Eve supper. These dishes are meant to symbolize wealth and prosperity in the coming year. The night is filled with fun, family togetherness, TV concerts, and, of course, the countdown to the New Year with fireworks lighting up the skies at midnight.
Another tradition commonly practiced in Ukraine during the New Year extends to January 14th, known as the 'Old New Year'. This is largely observed due to the difference between the Julian and Gregorian calendars. Following the Orthodox Church's calendar, the Old New Year is a more solemn, intimate family celebration marking the end of Ukraine's long festive season. While one part of the country wakes up to a regular working day on January 1st, another part continues with celebration, traditions, and festive meals.