Celebration

In Ukraine, one of the most cherished winter celebrations is Christmas, now observed on December 25, aligning with the Gregorian calendar. It is a deeply spiritual and family-centered holiday, beginning with Sviata Vecherya on Christmas Eve. Families gather to share a traditional twelve-dish meal, symbolizing the twelve apostles, with kutia—a sweet wheat dish—taking center stage.

A festive atmosphere fills homes as carolers, or "vertep," go from house to house singing traditional songs and spreading holiday cheer. Churches hold midnight services where the air is filled with prayers and the glow of candles. This holiday embodies the values of love, gratitude, and togetherness, making it a truly magical time of year. Although I now live in Canada, these traditions remain close to my heart and a way to connect with my roots.