The Ukrainian New Year is unique due to its combination of modern customs and ancient traditions. Even with the growing influence of Christmas and Western culture, the New Year remains a time when everyone can feel the warmth of the family hearth. Find out how Ukrainians celebrate the New Year

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New Year's Eve is one of the most loved and anticipated holidays in Ukraine as it brings families together, brings joy and a sense of magic. Although Ukraine is adopting some Western traditions, the New Year's celebration retains its uniqueness.

History of New Year's Eve celebrations in Ukraine

The history of New Year celebrations in Ukraine has deep roots. Initially, our ancestors, who were closely connected with nature, celebrated the beginning of the new year in spring, with the awakening of nature. Later, with the adoption of Christianity, the holiday became tied to the church calendar.

In 1918, with the transition to the Gregorian calendar, the date of the New Year's celebration was moved to 1 January, as in most European countries. However, the tradition of celebrating the Old New Year (on the night of 13-14 January) has survived to some extent to this day.

The main traditions of celebrating the New Year in Ukraine

In Ukraine, the New Year is traditionally celebrated with family or close friends. This is the time when everyone gathers at the festive table to see off the old year and welcome the new one with hopes for the best.

Special attention is paid to preparing the festive table. Traditional dishes are always present on the table: olivier, herring under a fur coat, jelly, sandwiches with red caviar and various meat delicacies. You can also often see tangerines on the table, a symbol of the holiday.

The main attribute is the Christmas tree

Decorating a Christmas tree is an obligatory part of preparing for the holiday. Ukrainians try to decorate their homes with garlands, candles and brightly coloured balls. The tree becomes the centre of the festive atmosphere, and gifts are placed under it.

Speaking of gifts! Unlike Western countries, where gifts are more commonly given at Christmas, in Ukraine it is customary to give gifts on New Year's Eve. This is due to historical traditions, as the New Year has long been the main winter holiday in the country. For children, gifts are brought by Santa Claus and the Snow Maiden, who are associated with magic and the expectation of miracles.

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How is the New Year celebrated in Ukraine?

As in many other countries, at midnight, the whole family gathers around the TV or clock to hear the chimes. This moment is accompanied by the raising of champagne glasses and the traditional address of the head of state.

Some Ukrainians make a wish at exactly 00:00 and believe that the wish made at the chimes will come true.

Also, before the outbreak of full-scale war, Ukrainians used to go out after midnight to launch fireworks. However, now, under martial law, pyrotechnics are prohibited by law. In addition, citizens cannot be outside after midnight due to the curfew.

New Year in Ukraine is not just a calendar date. This holiday symbolises a new stage in life, hope for the best and the opportunity to spend time with loved ones. In the current war-related challenges, New Year's celebrations have changed, but have become even more important. It helps to preserve the spirit of unity, faith in the future and traditions passed down from generation to generation.

We remind you! Earlier, we told you how much Ukrainians are willing to spend on renting accommodation during the New Year holidays, which destinations they choose most often and what criteria play a key role in their choice.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

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