How Do Ukrainians Say Merry Christmas and Celebrate the Holidays?

Christmas in Ukraine is a deeply cherished holiday, rich with traditions and warm greetings that reflect the country’s cultural heritage. If you want to know how Ukrainians say Merry Christmas and how they celebrate the season, this post will guide you through the common phrases, customs, and festive spirit that define Ukrainian Christmas.

Традиційний український різдвяний стіл з святковими стравами та прикрасами

How Ukrainians Say Merry Christmas

The most popular way to say Merry Christmas in Ukrainian is:

"Щасливого Різдва!"

(pronounced: Shchaslyvoho Rizdva)

This phrase literally means "Happy Christmas" and is widely used during the holiday season. Another common greeting is:

"З Різдвом Христовим!"

(pronounced: Z Rizdvom Khrystovym)

This translates to "With the Birth of Christ," emphasizing the religious significance of the holiday. Ukrainians often use both greetings interchangeably, depending on the context and the closeness of the relationship.

When greeting family, friends, or neighbors, it’s common to add warm wishes for health, happiness, and prosperity along with the Christmas greeting. For example:

• "З Різдвом Христовим! Бажаю здоров’я і радості!"

("Merry Christmas! I wish you health and joy!")

These greetings are heartfelt and reflect the importance of community and family during the holidays.

When Do Ukrainians Celebrate Christmas?

Unlike many Western countries that celebrate Christmas on December 25, most Ukrainians observe Christmas on January 7. This date follows the Julian calendar, which is used by the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church.

Some Ukrainians, especially those living abroad or belonging to other Christian denominations, may celebrate on December 25. However, January 7 remains the traditional and most widely observed date in Ukraine.

Traditional Ukrainian Christmas Customs

Christmas in Ukraine is not just about greetings; it’s a season filled with meaningful customs that bring people together. Here are some key traditions:

Sviatyi Vechir (Holy Evening)

The main Christmas celebration begins on the evening of January 6, known as Sviatyi Vechir or Holy Evening. Families gather for a special dinner that includes 12 meatless dishes, symbolizing the 12 apostles. Some typical dishes are:

• Borscht with mushrooms

• Varenyky (dumplings)

• Kutia (a sweet grain pudding made from wheat, honey, and poppy seeds)

• Fish dishes

  
  

The meal starts when the first star appears in the sky, symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem.

Caroling (Koliadky)

Caroling is a joyful tradition where groups of singers, often children or young adults, go from house to house singing koliadky (Christmas carols). They bring wishes of happiness and prosperity and are often rewarded with sweets or small gifts.

These carols are deeply rooted in Ukrainian folklore and often include references to the nativity story, local legends, and wishes for a good harvest.

Didukh – The Symbol of Ancestors

A unique Ukrainian Christmas tradition is the Didukh, a sheaf of wheat or other grains brought into the home to represent the spirits of ancestors and the connection between the living and the past. The Didukh is placed in a prominent spot during Christmas to honor family heritage and ensure a good harvest in the coming year.

How Ukrainians Greet Each Other During the Holidays

During the Christmas season, Ukrainians greet each other with warmth and respect. Besides the phrases mentioned earlier, you might hear:

• "Веселого Різдва!" (Veseloho Rizdva) – "Joyful Christmas"

• "З Новим роком і Різдвом!" (Z Novym rokom i Rizdvom) – "Happy New Year and Christmas"

  
  

It’s common to exchange these greetings in person, over the phone, or in written cards. Ukrainians often accompany their greetings with a handshake, hug, or a kiss on the cheek, depending on the closeness of the relationship.

The Role of Religion in Ukrainian Christmas

For many Ukrainians, Christmas is a deeply religious holiday. Attending church services on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day is an important part of the celebration. The liturgies are often held in Ukrainian and include beautiful hymns and prayers.

The religious aspect of Christmas is reflected in the greetings, which often mention Christ or the nativity. This spiritual focus shapes the way Ukrainians experience the holiday, blending faith with family and cultural traditions.

Modern Christmas Celebrations in Ukraine

While traditional customs remain strong, modern Christmas celebrations in Ukraine also include festive markets, decorated streets, and public events. Cities like Kyiv and Lviv light up with Christmas trees, colorful lights, and concerts.

Gift-giving has become more common, especially among children, and Santa Claus-like figures called Did Moroz (Grandfather Frost) sometimes appear at celebrations. However, the emphasis on family gatherings, traditional meals, and religious observance continues to define the holiday.

Christmas greetings in Ukraine carry deep meaning and reflect a rich cultural heritage. Saying "Щасливого Різдва!" or "З Різдвом Христовим!" connects people not only through words but through shared traditions and values. Whether through a festive meal, caroling, or attending church, Ukrainians celebrate Christmas with warmth and joy.