English

Christmas Tradition in Russia

Christmas Tradition in Russia

The aim of this lecture is to present on Christmas Tradition in Russia. The feast of St. Nicholas (December 6) was observed for many centuries, but after the communist revolution, the celebration of the feast was suppressed. The date is different because the Russian Orthodox church uses the old ‘Julian’ calendar for religious celebration days. During the communist years St. Nicholas was transformed into Grandfather Frost. Babouschka brings gifts for the children. Like Italy’s La Befana, the story is that Babouschka failed to give food and shelter to the three wise men during their journey to visit the Christ Child.