Christmas procession to take place in Kyiv: how to join?
On 25 December, the Ivan Honchar Museum will once again hold a Christmas procession with caroling stars. Find out the history of the tradition and how to join it in the article on Visit Ukraine
The tradition of the Christmas procession dates back several millennia. During the folk ritual, carolers dressed up as mythical creatures, led a goat as a pledge of prosperity and wore a Christmas star, a symbol of the birth of Jesus. In Ukraine, the tradition has survived in many cities. Large-scale processions are held annually in Lviv, Kharkiv, and Kyiv. In the capital, the ancient rite was restored by activists of the Ivan Honchar Museum. In 2013, during the Revolution of Dignity, carolers took to the streets of Kyiv for the first time in many years. In 2024, the Christmas procession will take place on 25 December. Read about the route, conditions of participation, and traditions of celebrating the biggest winter holiday in this article.
Route and time of the Kyiv Christmas procession
The Christmas procession in Kyiv will start on 25 December at 14:00 on Mykhailivska Square. The route will run through Mykhailivska Square - Sofiiska Square - Golden Gate - Volodymyrska Street - Opera House - Bohdan Khmelnytsky Street - Khreshchatyk - Independence Square.
Earlier we told you that in Ukraine, Christmas is celebrated according to two traditions - on 25 December and 7 January.
How can I join the Christmas procession in Kyiv?
Participation in the procession requires very little effort:
1. Register on the Ivan Honchar Museum's Facebook page;
2. Make your own Christmas star.
3. Go to Mykhailivska Square on 25 December.
Find more Christmas traditions and symbols on the Visit Ukraine portal.
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What does the Christmas procession symbolise?
The traditions of the Christmas procession have united Ukrainians since their grandparents for many centuries. The Ivan Honchar Theatre revives the ancient traditions and unites the whole nation behind caroling. And the Christmas star itself is now a symbol of the souls of those brave compatriots who died for freedom and independence.
Let us remind you! Earlier, we told you some incredible facts about Christmas that you probably didn't know.
Photo: Stefania / Pinterest
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When did the tradition of the Christmas procession begin?
Where does the Christmas procession take place in Ukraine?
Who holds the Christmas procession in Kyiv?
When will the Christmas procession take place in Kyiv in 2024?
What is the route of the Christmas procession in Kyiv in 2024?
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