Christmas Eve in Lithuania (Kūčios)

History and Traditions: Christmas Eve, known as Kūčios in Lithuania, is a significant and deeply traditional celebration that precedes Christmas Day. The history of Kūčios is rooted in both Christian traditions and ancient pre-Christian winter solstice rituals. Over time, these have merged to form the unique Lithuanian customs observed today.

Preparation and Celebration: The day is marked by meticulous preparation and a strict fasting rule until the evening meal, which helps to cultivate a spiritual atmosphere. This meal, also called Kūčios, consists of twelve meatless dishes symbolizing the twelve apostles. The choice of dishes varies by region but commonly includes fish, herring, kūčiukai (small pastries), beet soup (šaltibarščiai), mushrooms, sauerkraut, beans, and various grain dishes.

A ceremonial loaf of Christmas bread (Kalėdaitis) is also typically present on the table. An extra plate is often set for a deceased family member or an unexpected guest to highlight hospitality and remembrance.

Traditions: Many traditions are observed during Kūčios with an air of ritualistic importance:

• Straw is placed beneath the tablecloth as a reminder of Jesus' humble birth in a manger.
• Family members share Christmas wafers (plotkelės) with each other while offering good wishes.
• It's customary to leave some food on the table overnight for ancestral spirits.
• Predictions for the coming year are made through various rituals involving items such as grains or nuts.

Activities: Christmas Eve is typically spent with close family members. After dinner, families often attend midnight Mass at their local church to mark the birth of Jesus Christ. The evening may also include singing traditional Christmas carols (Kalėdų giesmės).

In summary, Christmas Eve in Lithuania combines religious significance with ancestral customs, creating a solemn yet warm family-oriented celebration that ushers in the holiday season.