The Christmas Traditions of Ukraine

King Volodymyr or Saint Vladimir is responsible for bringing Christianity to Ukraine. He also plays a central role and responsibility to the Christmas traditions of Ukraine as he adapted the pre-Christian practices to form part of Christian celebrations. The Julian calendar followed by the Eastern Orthodox Church is what is followed in Ukraine as it is in Russia, so they celebrate Xmas on a day different from the rest of the world which follows the Gregorian calendar. They enjoy a more solemn celebration after the commercial Xmas of the rest of the world has died down.

Like Russia, the Christmas traditions of Ukraine has suffered the tampering of the communist regime which superimposed the celebration of New Year’s Day over Xmas. The belief in Saint Nicholas was stronger among Ukrainians, or the communist government did not put in enough effort to eradicate the practice. Thus, Saint Nicholas survived the government suppression of Christian religious practices and he remained a special saint long after he was introduced to Ukraine by Saint Vladimir. This celebration of the Christmas traditions of Ukraine provides the children with great fun when people invite visitors into their homes and the children receive present and exchange gifts. Saint Nicholas is a permanent fixture of Ukrainian Christmas wearing a bishop’s vestments.