Christmas Day in Lithuania

Christmas Day, known as Kaledos in Lithuanian, is one of the most important and widely celebrated holidays in Lithuania. It takes place on December 25th, as in many other countries around the world, and is a public holiday that brings families together to celebrate.

History and Traditions:

The celebration of Christmas in Lithuania has deep historical roots intertwined with both Christian and pre-Christian customs. After Lithuania officially converted to Christianity in 1387, the religious aspects of Christmas became more pronounced. However, many ancient traditions persisted, often blending with Christian beliefs.

• Kūčios: The focal point of Lithianian Christmas Eve is the Kūčios dinner. This meal is traditionally meatless and consists of twelve dishes representing the twelve apostles. The dinner begins only after the first star appears in the sky, symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem.
• Straw under the tablecloth: A layer of straw placed under the tablecloth represents Jesus' manger and serves as a reminder of his humble birth.
• Sharing of Plotkele: A special Christmas wafer called "plotkele" or "Kalėdaitis" is shared among family members with well-wishes.
• Fortune-telling: Old pagan customs include various forms of fortune-telling using items such as straw to predict upcoming events.

Modern Celebrations:

Today, Lithuanians celebrate Christmas Day by attending church services and spending time with their families. Homes are often decorated with Christmas trees adorned with ornaments and lights.

• Gift-giving: Exchanging gifts is common on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning.
• Singing Carols: Singing traditional Lithuanian carols (Kalėdų giesmės) is a popular activity during this festive season.
• Visiting Relatives: Many people visit their relatives' homes to share meals and spend time together.

In summary, Christmas Day in Lithuania embodies a rich tapestry of traditions that honor both Christian beliefs and Lithuania's pagan heritage. It's a time for family gatherings, reflection, and embracing age-old customs that continue to thrive in today's celebrations.