Orthodox Christmas Day in North Macedonia

Overview

Orthodox Christmas Day in North Macedonia is celebrated on January 7th, according to the Julian calendar used by the Eastern Orthodox Church. This differs from the Gregorian calendar where Christmas falls on December 25th. North Macedonia, with its significant Orthodox Christian population, observes this day as a public holiday.

History and Traditions

The holiday's origins are tied to the birth of Jesus Christ, with traditions stemming from ancient Christian practices. In North Macedonia, like in other Orthodox countries, Advent precedes Christmas, often involving a period of fasting which ends on Christmas Eve.

Badnik (Christmas Eve)

On Christmas Eve, known as Badnik, families gather and prepare a special dinner with an odd number of meatless dishes to symbolize the 12 Apostles minus Judas. The evening often includes burning of the Badnik log (oak), symbolizing the warmth of the family hearth and bringing good fortune.

Christmas Day

On Christmas Day, families attend church services and continue celebrations at home. The festive meal usually includes rich foods like roast pork and traditional pastries after the fasting period.

Macedonian Customs

• Polaznik: The first person who enters the house on Christmas morning is called "polaznik" and is believed to bring good luck for the coming year.
• Oak Log: Similar to Badnik night customs, an oak log is brought into the home to be burned. This stems from pre-Christian Slavic traditions.
• Vertep: A traditional folk performance featuring a nativity scene may occur in some regions.
• Gift Giving: While gift-giving is not as central as in Western Christmas traditions, it still plays a role during family gatherings.

In modern times, while religious observance remains at its core, Orthodox Christmas in North Macedonia also reflects contemporary celebrations with decorations and public festivities blending both religious and secular elements.