Why do russians celebrate christmas

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Russians celebrate Christmas on January 7th according to the Julian calendar used by the Russian Orthodox Church, which is 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar. The holiday was suppressed during the Soviet era from 1917 to 1991, when religious celebrations were banned, but was reinstated as a public holiday in 1991 after the Soviet Union's collapse. Today, about 71% of Russians identify as Orthodox Christians, and Christmas is marked with church services, family gatherings, and traditional foods like kutya (a sweet grain pudding).

Key Facts

Christmas is celebrated on January 7th in Russia due to the Julian calendar
The holiday was banned during the Soviet period from 1917 to 1991
Christmas became a public holiday again in 1991 after the USSR dissolved
Approximately 71% of Russians identify as Orthodox Christians as of recent surveys
Traditional foods include kutya, a dish made from wheat berries, honey, and poppy seeds

Overview

Christmas in Russia is primarily celebrated by the Russian Orthodox Church on January 7th, following the Julian calendar, which lags 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar used in Western countries. This tradition dates back to the adoption of Christianity in Kievan Rus' in 988 AD under Prince Vladimir the Great. During the Soviet era, from the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917 until 1991, religious observances including Christmas were suppressed, and the holiday was replaced with secular New Year celebrations. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, Christmas was reinstated as an official public holiday, reflecting a resurgence of religious freedom. Today, it is observed by millions of Orthodox Christians, with church services, family meals, and customs like the Holy Supper on Christmas Eve, which features 12 dishes symbolizing the 12 apostles.

How It Works

The celebration of Christmas in Russia involves a combination of religious rituals and cultural traditions. The Russian Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar for liturgical dates, so Christmas Eve falls on January 6th, marked by a strict fast until the first star appears in the sky, commemorating the Star of Bethlehem. On Christmas Day, January 7th, believers attend the Divine Liturgy, which includes special hymns and prayers. Secular customs include decorating homes with ornaments and a Christmas tree (yolka), which was historically associated with New Year but has been incorporated into Christmas festivities. Families gather for a festive meal featuring dishes like kutya, borscht, and pirozhki, and children may receive gifts, though gift-giving is more prominent during New Year. The holiday period extends until January 19th with the Feast of Theophany, which includes the blessing of water.

Why It Matters

Christmas in Russia holds significant cultural and religious importance, serving as a symbol of national identity and spiritual revival post-Soviet era. It reinforces the role of the Russian Orthodox Church, which has seen a resurgence with over 100 million adherents globally, influencing social and political life. The holiday fosters family bonds and community cohesion through shared traditions, contributing to Russia's rich cultural heritage. Economically, it boosts sectors like retail and tourism, with festive markets and events. Understanding these celebrations provides insight into Russia's historical transitions and contemporary values, highlighting the interplay between religion and state in shaping societal norms.