Orthodox New Year in Ukraine

Date:

The Orthodox New Year, also known as the Julian New Year, is celebrated on January 14th according to the Gregorian calendar. This is because the Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar for its liturgical events.

History:

The origin of the Orthodox New Year dates back to 46 B.C. when Julius Caesar introduced the Julian calendar. With the Gregorian calendar reform in 1582, many countries shifted to the new system, but the Orthodox Church retained the old calendar for ecclesiastical purposes.

Traditions:

• Malanka: The night before Orthodox New Year's Day, known as Malanka or Generous Evening, involves festive traditions that include singing carols and wearing costumes.
• Festive Meals: Families gather for a special meal with traditional dishes such as kutia (a sweet grain pudding), symbolizing abundance and prosperity.
• Vasilopita: Some may also bake a Vasilopita (St. Basil's bread) with a coin hidden inside; whoever finds it is said to be blessed with good luck for the year.

Activities:

• Church Services: Many attend church services on this day to mark the beginning of the civil New Year according to their liturgical calendar.
• Family Gatherings: It's common for families and friends to come together and celebrate with food, music, dancing, and other festive activities.

While not as widely celebrated as January 1st in Ukraine due to its adherence to the Gregorian calendar for secular matters, Orthodox New Year remains a cultural observance rooted in religious tradition for many Ukrainian Christians.