Christmas in Belarus: Customs & Traditions

Christmas traditions in Belarus are fascinating, as they beautifully blend various religious and cultural practices from the Eastern European region. As you might know, the Republic of Belarus boasts both Catholic and Orthodox Christian followers along with secular individuals who partake in these festivities.

From December 25th onwards, the season of joy commences, where Catholics and Protestants in Belarus celebrate Christmas. However, the majority of the population observes the Orthodox Christmas on January 7th. In between these dates, many Belarusians also hold New Year’s Eve celebrations, combining the best of their customs.
One unique tradition in Belarus is called Kaliady, a folk holiday that merges pagan rituals with Christian beliefs. Participants attend church and may even engage in caroling, sometimes adorned in costumes resembling animals. This ritual can be traced back to ancient traditions, where people hoped to ward off evil spirits and earn rewards for their efforts. Dive further into this magical world of Belarus Christmas traditions and uncover a delightful new perspective on the holiday season.
Historical Background

Belarus has a rich history of Christmas traditions, with influences from Orthodox, Catholic, and other religious groups. It’s fascinating how these customs blend with elements from Soviet times, pagan rituals, and calendar changes.
Religious holidays like Christmas were celebrated long before the Soviet Union era. However, during the Soviet years, Christmas took on a quieter tone, as the predominantly atheistic ideology discouraged “Western” and religious holidays. Despite these restrictions, many Belarusians continued to celebrate Christmas in secret.
Before Soviet times, the Orthodox Church in Belarus followed the Julian calendar, which placed Christmas on January 7th rather than December 25th. This date is still a common time for Orthodox Christians to celebrate Christmas in the country.
Winter solstice traditions played a part in shaping Belarusian Christmas customs. The winter solstice was a significant event in pre-Christian Belarus, marking the time when days start getting longer. This connection to nature was deeply woven into Belarusian culture, and aspects of it still influence Christmas celebrations today.
The arrival of Catholicism in the 18th century brought new Christmas customs. Catholic Christmas tends to focus on the story of Jesus’ birth and the nativity scene, whereas Orthodox customs emphasize religious services and fasting.
While pagan traditions coexist alongside Christian customs, one thing is certain: the Belarusian people have a strong connection to their cultural heritage during the Christmas season. Nowadays, Belarusians enjoy a mix of customs incorporating both religious and secular aspects, creating a unique and diverse holiday experience.
Christmas Eve Traditions

In Belarus, Christmas Eve is a time when families gather to share a festive meal, observe various rituals, and embrace the spirit of togetherness. As you prepare for your own celebration, be sure to indulge in some of the traditional Belarussian dishes, drinks and customs that make this time of the year so special.
The Orthodox Christmas Eve dinner is an essential part of the holiday, and it usually consists of 12 dishes. Each dish represents one of Jesus’ twelve apostles. Typically, the ingredients for these meals include fish, vegetables, mushrooms, and berries. Before the meal begins, you’ll often find some hay or straw laid out underneath the tablecloth as a symbol of the humble setting of Jesus’ birth.
One of the most popular Christmas Eve dishes is Kutia (also known as Kućcia), a traditional porridge made from oatmeal, honey, and seeds. Your table could also feature some delightful potato pancakes served hot and crispy. Pair these with a range of vegetable side dishes, such as marinated mushrooms or sauerkraut with carrots.
But of course, Christmas Eve wouldn’t be complete without fish. Across Belarus, carp is a popular choice, and it can be served smoked, fried, or baked. And don’t forget the drinks. Kisel, a thick fruit drink often made from potato starch and mixed with berries, is a staple at many Belarusian Christmas Eve gatherings.
The rituals that accompany these meals are as important as the dishes themselves. Families often begin their dinner by lighting a candle and saying a prayer. Bread plays a significant role in these customs – a key tradition involves breaking a piece of bread and sharing it among all the family members. This ritual signifies unity and sharing among loved ones.
So, as you delve into the heart of Belarusian Christmas Eve traditions, remember that it’s all about connecting with your roots, immersing yourself in the rich culture, and above all, celebrating the joyous festive season with the people you love.
Christmas Day Observances

In Belarus, Christmas is celebrated by both Catholics and Orthodox Christians. While Catholic Christmas is observed on December 25th, following the Gregorian calendar, Orthodox Christmas is celebrated on January 7th, as they follow the Julian calendar. The capital city, Minsk, comes alive with festive decorations and celebrations during this season.
For Catholics in Belarus, Christmas Day is about attending church service to mark the birth of Jesus. The focus is on the nativity scene, with an emphasis on the role of the 12 Disciples and Apostles. Families gather together for celebrations and spend quality time with each other.
On the other hand, Orthodox Christmas celebrations are marked by solemn church services and events at the Orthodox Church. Believers participate in prayers, hymns, and rituals to honor the birth of Jesus and his teachings. According to a well-known Belarusian tradition, animals are also believed to have a unique role during Orthodox Christmas, as folklore states they gain the power of speech on this holy night.
In general, both Catholic and Orthodox Christians in Belarus come together to celebrate the spirit of Christmas, with love, warmth, and goodwill. The season is filled with joy and togetherness, ultimately highlighting the true essence of Christmas across the nation.
New Year Celebrations

In Belarus, New Year celebrations often take precedence over Christmas festivities. Due to the Soviet-era influence, many traditions commonly associated with Christmas shifted to New Year’s Eve. You’ll notice that these celebrations can be quite lively, and on December 31st, the Belarusian people really know how to ring in the New Year.
During the New Year celebrations, Belarusians typically have a New Year Tree, which is similar to a Christmas tree. Instead of exchanging gifts on Christmas Day, they tend to place their presents under the New Year Tree and open them on New Year’s Eve. You can imagine how exciting and festive the atmosphere becomes as friends and families gather to exchange gifts and wish each other a Happy New Year.
One iconic figure you’ll encounter during Belarus’ New Year festivities is Ded Moroz or Father Frost. He is the Belarusian equivalent of Santa Claus and is often accompanied by his granddaughter, Snegurochka, the Snow Maiden. Ded Moroz brings gifts to children and spreads cheer across the country during the New Year celebrations. So, if you were expecting Santa Claus during your visit, don’t be surprised to meet Father Frost instead.
While the New Year’s Eve celebrations on January 1 are widely popular, Belarusians also celebrate the Old New Year on January 14. This date aligns with the Orthodox Christmas, and the festivities continue with traditional foods, music, and dances. This additional celebration is a unique aspect of Belarusian culture, showing their deep-rooted connection to both the past and present.
As you can see, Belarus has a rich and vibrant New Year tradition that offers plenty of excitement and fun for everyone involved. So, if you find yourself in Belarus during this time, remember to embrace the customs, join in the festivities, and most importantly, have a fantastic time!
Festivities and Performances

During the Christmas season in Belarus, you’ll find a mix of religious and secular celebrations, bringing the entire country together. One of the highlights of the season is the age-old tradition of caroling. Groups of people, often dressed in colorful costumes, go from house to house singing carols and spreading holiday cheer. These performances are not only entertaining but also serve as a way to ward off evil spirits and welcome good fortune for the upcoming year.
You won’t want to miss the various concerts hosted throughout the country. The Palace of Sports in Minsk often features large-scale events and performances, showcasing Belarusian talent. In addition to concerts, the Christmas market is another must-see. Set up in city squares, these markets are adorned with festive lights illuminating the area. Here, you can buy handcrafted gifts, indulge in traditional food, and enjoy various attractions.
During the holiday season, you’ll find cities and towns throughout Belarus illuminated by Christmas lights. From the streets to the buildings, everything is aglow with festive cheer. If you’re lucky, you might even witness the lighting ceremony where public officials and prominent figures gather to mark the start of the Christmas season.
Finally, another unique aspect of Belarusian Christmas traditions is the “Kaliady” festival. Rooted in pagan rituals, this celebration features a cast of characters representing fantastic beasts and evil spirits. Participants act out different scenes, portraying symbolic battles between good and evil, reinforcing the message of hope and protecting their communities from the harsh elements of winter.
So, while you’re in Belarus during the Christmas season, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere by experiencing the caroling, performances, concerts, Christmas market, and other festive activities that make this time of year so special.
Notable Characters

When it comes to Christmas in Belarus, some characters play a significant role in the festivities. One of the most beloved figures is Father Frost. You might know him as Grandfather Frost, and he’s similar to Santa Claus. He brings gifts for children and spreads holiday cheer.
Grandfather Frost’s residence can be found in Belovezhskaya Pushcha (Bialowieza Forest), which is a famous tourist attraction in Belarus. He isn’t alone in his duties; he has a helper, his Granddaughter Snegurochka. She’s a beautiful girl made of snow and is often depicted in Belarusian folklore. Together, they make the holiday season magical for everyone in Belarus.
When you think about Christmas, you might also associate it with another important figure – St. Nicholas. In Belarus, he is referred to as Sviaty Mikalaj. Although his celebrations are somewhat overshadowed by Grandfather Frost and the focus on New Year’s Eve, Sviaty Mikalaj still has a place in the hearts of Belarusians and plays a part in the festivities.
In short, Christmas in Belarus is a time where these well-known characters come together to create delightful memories. Whether it’s Father Frost, Snegurochka, or St. Nicholas, their presence adds a touch of magic to the holiday season for everyone.
Regional Differences

In Belarus, Christmas traditions have a unique blend of influences from neighboring countries in Eastern Europe, like Poland, Russia, Ukraine, and Lithuania. The diversity of customs and celebrations can be attributed to the various religious groups that reside in the country, including Orthodox Christians, Catholics, and Protestants.
Belarusians celebrate Orthodox Christmas on January 7th, following the traditions of Russia and Ukraine. The festivities are deeply rooted in pre-Christian traditions, such as Kaliady, which has evolved over the years to incorporate elements of Christianity. The Orthodox celebration emphasizes the spiritual nature of Christmas, with various customs and rituals like decorating Christmas trees, singing carols, and attending church services.
On the other hand, Catholics and Protestants in Belarus celebrate Christmas on December 25th, a date shared with most of Western Europe, including Poland and Lithuania. These communities also observe Advent, which starts four weeks before Christmas and is marked by festive decorations, lighting candles, and attending special church services. Christmas Eve is an essential part of the celebrations, with a focus on family gatherings, sharing a traditional meal called “Kućcia,” and exchanging gifts.
Despite the regional differences, many Belarusians who do not identify with a specific religious denomination still participate in various Christmas traditions. They celebrate both on December 25th and January 7th, embracing the customs and festivities from different religious groups and neighboring countries. As a result, Christmas season in Belarus is a beautiful fusion of cultures and histories, where believers and non-believers come together to share the joy and warmth of the holiday season.
Christmas Cuisine

When it comes to Christmas in Belarus, food plays a major role in the celebrations. Get ready to indulge in a variety of dishes as you prepare your festive table.
Belarusians typically serve 12 dishes on Christmas Eve, symbolizing the 12 apostles. These dishes are primarily based on vegetables, fish, and grains. You won’t find any meat on the table as it’s usually a part of the fasting period in Orthodox tradition. However, fish is considered acceptable and is often served on the table.
One of the main dishes is Kućcia or Kutia, which is a traditional sweet porridge made from wheat or barley, sweetened with honey and flavored with poppy seeds. This dish is not only delicious, but it also carries symbolic meaning as it represents happiness, peace, and prosperity.
Mushrooms are a must-have in many dishes. Boiled, pickled, or fried, they find their way into various recipes such as salads, sauces, and casseroles. Vegetable dishes are also popular, including cabbage rolls, beet soup, and potato pancakes.
Love pancakes? Then you’re in for a treat! Belarusians enjoy a variety of pancakes during the festive season, either made from potatoes or flour, and often served with sour cream or mushroom sauce.
Bread holds special significance in Belarus, representing life and prosperity. At the Christmas table, beautiful loaves of bread are often used as decoration or even as a centerpiece. Don’t forget to try some of the local sweets, such as honey cookies, gingerbread, and candies.
Drinks complement the mouth-watering dishes, and among the most popular are fruit-based non-alcoholic beverages, kompot, and herbal teas. In some families, you might also find homemade fruit wines and liquors to make the celebrations even more festive.
So, when you celebrate Christmas in Belarus, embrace the diverse flavors and traditions to make your holiday season unforgettable!
Holiday Decorations

‘Tis the season for cheerful holiday decorations in Belarus! When it comes to Christmas, you’ll find that Belarusians pay special attention to their décor, creating a warm and festive atmosphere.
In many Belarusian homes, holiday trees are a central aspect of the Christmas celebrations. Christmas trees are traditionally adorned with various ornaments and decorations, with straw being a common and unique material used. These straw ornaments showcase the skilled craftsmanship of Belarusian artisans, who create unique, intricate designs. Besides straw ornaments, wooden figurines, woven flax textiles, and ceramics can also be found adorning Christmas trees.
As far as illuminations go, bright and colorful Christmas lights bring a festive mood to homes and streets. Twinkling lights strung on trees and exterior buildings not only catch your eye, but also spread joy throughout the cold winter nights.
An interesting aspect of Belarusian Christmas decorations is the incorporation of ancestral spirits and nature motifs. The holiday season in Belarus marks the time when ancestral spirits are believed to return to their homes, so decorations often include brush arrangements and other symbols relating to the spiritual and natural world.
To sum it up, the holiday decorations in Belarus reflect a mix of traditions, creativity, and spiritual beliefs. With beautiful Christmas trees, vibrant lights, and unique straw ornaments, the country embraces the festive spirit wholeheartedly.
Public Holidays

In Belarus, Orthodox Christmas is celebrated on the 7th of January, while Catholic Christmas is observed on the 25th of December. As part of Belarusians are Catholics, many people celebrate both Christmas days. However, for some Belarusians, New Year’s Eve is the real holiday.
You’ll find that Christmas celebrations in Belarus can vary depending on the residents’ religious beliefs. With over 15% of Protestants and Catholics in the country, you may encounter various traditions being followed during this festive season.
New Year’s Eve, a holdover from Soviet times, often takes precedence over Christmas in Belarus. Many traditions associated with Christmas, such as exchanging gifts or having a festive dinner, are now linked to New Year’s Eve celebrations. New Year Trees, sometimes called Holiday Trees, can be found in homes with gifts placed underneath. These presents are typically exchanged or opened on New Year’s Eve.
It’s important to note that the growing popularity of Christmas in recent times has led to a revitalization of various traditions. Some families choose to celebrate both versions of Christmas and New Year’s Eve, making the holiday season in Belarus an extended period of festivities and joy.
As you explore Christmas and holiday traditions in Belarus, remember to be open and respectful of the various customs you may encounter. This is a time for warmth, cheer, and togetherness, so embrace the spirit of the season and enjoy your Belarusian Christmas experience.