10 Russian Christmas facts and traditions

You might be surprised by the unique traditions that make the Russian Christmas season (Svyatki) so special. Celebrating Christmas in Russia means experiencing the solemn beauty of Orthodox liturgies and hearing traditional kolyadki (carols). But you’ll also get to savor holiday treats like kutya and pryaniki. And all of this is while embracing the snow-filled atmosphere of a Russian winter.

1. Russia celebrates according to the Julian Calendar

Unlike most of the world, Russian Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas in accordance with the Julian calendar. This calendar, 13 days behind the Gregorian one used in the West, reflects the church’s traditionalist approach to maintaining centuries-old practices. This means that 7 January on the Gregorian Calendar corresponds to 25 December on the Julian Calendar.

The decision to maintain the Julian Calendar is also a way of preserving the unique identity of the Orthodox faith, emphasizing continuity with its historical roots. It’s a fascinating contrast for those used to celebrating Christmas in December, making the Russian holiday season feel like an extended, second celebration.

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2. Christmas is a distinct season called Svyatki

Svyatki is the Russian Christmas season, celebrated from 7 January (Orthodox Christmas) to 19 January (Epiphany). Rooted in both Orthodox Christian and ancient pagan traditions, it blends religious devotion with festive customs.

The season begins with Christmas liturgies and family feasts, focusing on spirituality, goodwill, and the nativity story. It ends with Epiphany, marked by rituals like the blessing of water and plunging into icy rivers or lakes, symbolizing purification.

During Svyatki, traditional Slavic folklore comes alive through caroling, fortune-telling, and communal gatherings. Fortune-telling, especially for young women seeking insight into their future, is a popular custom, alongside masquerades and singing traditional kolyadki (carols).

3. Santa Claus does not visit Russia

Instead of Santa Claus, Russians have Ded Moroz (Grandfather Frost), who brings gifts for New Year’s rather than Christmas. Ded Moroz has a young woman helper called Snegurochka (Snow Maiden). She is a unique feature of Russian folklore, appearing in traditional attire with braided hair.

While not directly linked to Christmas, their presence adds to the season’s magic and highlights Russia’s distinct approach to winter holidays. Watching them in parades or on television can feel like encountering characters from a winter fairy tale.

4. Christmas was once banned in Russia

During the Soviet era (1917–1991), the regime’s broader suppression of religion included effectively banning Christmas in Russia. The communist government promoted atheism and viewed religious holidays as counterproductive to its secular and ideological goals.

The regime closed or repurposed churches across the country, and outlawed all public celebrations of Christmas. Even private observance could attract scrutiny or penalties, forcing many devout Christians to celebrate in secret.

5. Celebrations begin with the first star

The First Star Custom is a deeply symbolic and cherished tradition observed on Russian Christmas Eve. Families wait for the first star to appear in the evening sky before starting their Holy Supper, a reflective meal that marks the end of the Nativity Fast. The star represents the Star of Bethlehem, which guided the Wise Men to the birthplace of Jesus, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the holiday.

This custom connects faith with nature, as people step outside or glance through windows to spot the star. It serves as a moment of stillness and anticipation, uniting families in prayer and gratitude. In cloudy weather, if you can’t see the stars, some households will begin their meal at the traditional time of 18:00.

6. Russians fast for 40 days before Christmas Eve

The Christmas Eve feast in Russia, observed on 6 January, is deeply rooted in Orthodox Christian traditions, particularly the Nativity Fast. On this solemn evening, families gather for a meatless and dairy-free meal, marking the final day of a 40-day period of fasting and spiritual preparation. The feast, often called the Holy Supper, reflects the simplicity and humility of the Nativity story.

The meal typically includes dishes such as sochivo (a wheat porridge with honey, nuts, and dried fruit), symbolizing unity and hope. Other common items include mushroom soups, pickled vegetables, beet salads, and dishes made with potatoes or cabbage.

7. You can still see the Pagan influence today

Many Russian Christmas traditions have roots in pre-Christian pagan customs incorporated into the celebration of the holiday after the adoption of Christianity in 988 AD. Before Christianity, ancient Slavs celebrated the winter solstice, a time to honor nature and deities tied to the cycles of the sun and earth. These pagan festivals often involved feasting, singing, fortune-telling, and rituals meant to ensure prosperity and protection from evil spirits.

One prominent example is kolyadki, a caroling tradition with origins in pagan times. Groups of singers dressed in costumes would go door-to-door, singing songs to bring blessings and good fortune in exchange for food or gifts. Similarly, Svyatki (the 12 days between Christmas and Epiphany) includes fortune-telling practices that date back to ancient Slavic beliefs about divination and the power of these “holy” days.

8. Nativity scenes are a big deal

In Russia, nativity scenes, known as Vertep, are traditionally expressed through theatrical performances or puppet shows rather than static displays. The word “Vertep” originally meant “cave” or “grotto,” reflecting the humble setting of Christ’s birth. These performances date back to the 17th century and combines Christian narratives with Russian folk culture, often incorporating humor, songs, and dramatic flair.

A typical Vertep includes two levels: the upper stage represents the heavenly realm where the Nativity story unfolds, while the lower stage features comedic or satirical skits about earthly life. Over time, Vertep plays evolved into vibrant community events, performed in churches, homes, or public squares.

9. The Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow hosts a massive liturgy

The Christmas liturgy at the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow is one of the country’s biggest religious events. Steeped in tradition, the Patriarch of Moscow and All Rus’ lead this grand service. Government officials, clergy, and worshippers attend in person, while millions more watch it broadcast live across the country.

The service begins on 6 January with a solemn vigil. This transitions into the Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom at midnight. The cathedral is decorated with icons, candles, and evergreens while the choir chants ancient hymns and prayers in Old Church Slavonic. The highlight of the liturgy is the reading of the Nativity Gospel, proclaiming the birth of Christ. This is then followed by the Eucharist.

10. Epiphany celebrations involve an ice bath

In Russia, Epiphany on 19 January marks the end of the Christmas season and celebrates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River. It is one of the most significant holy days in the Russian Orthodox Church, emphasizing themes of purification and spiritual renewal. The event is also closely associated with the manifestation of the Holy Trinity during Jesus’ baptism.

The most dramatic and iconic Epiphany tradition is the blessing of water, followed by icy water plunges. Priests bless rivers, lakes, or specially carved cross-shaped ice holes called “Jordan”, after the Jordan River. Believers immerse themselves three times in the freezing water, symbolizing the cleansing of sins and a renewal of faith.

Even those who don’t participate often collect blessed water to take home, as it is believed to have healing and protective properties.