Orthodox Christmas Day is one of the most revered public holidays in Russia. It's celebrated annually on January 7th, following the Julian Calendar as opposed to the widely used Gregorian calendar where Christmas falls on December 25th. This holiday is deeply rooted in religious observances from the Russian Orthodox Church, making it a significant cultural and spiritual event for the citizens of Russia.
The festivities for Orthodox Christmas Day in Russia are known for their blend of solemnity and joyous celebration. The holiday usually begins with all-night vigils, liturgies, and church services to commemorate the birth of Christ, highlighted by the Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great. Many Russians fast before the holiday, abstaining from meat, dairy and alcohol, and breaking their fast with a Christmas Eve meal, or 'Holy Supper' once the first star has been spotted in the evening sky.
Tradition and culture play a substantial role in the way Orthodox Christmas is celebrated in Russia. Apart from religious observances, various customs and traditions are also a central part of the celebration. Carols, or 'Kolyadki' are sung, 'Vertep' (Nativity scenes) are displayed, and children often receive gifts from 'Babushka' (an old woman figure similar to Western's Santa Claus) or 'Ded Moroz' (the equivalent of Father Christmas). Despite the harsh winter temperatures, this holiday brings warmth with its rich customs, filling the hearts of the Russian people with spiritual joy and festive delight.