There were also traditions associated with attracting a good harvest and protecting the household - it is customary to sow on New Year's Eve. By the way, in modern realities, this tradition takes place, only they sow the land not like in those days, but right in the house, symbolically.
Over time, the didukh was replaced by a Christmas tree, needles, which, according to beliefs, protect the house from evil spirits and troubles. The tree was decorated with delicacies, sweets and even vegetables and fruits. But the main symbol of the New Year began to be decorated with toys relatively recently - more than a hundred years ago.
A tradition that has a long history, but has survived to this day - the belief about the magic of the New Year. It used to be believed that during the Christmas season, from New Year to Epiphany, the gates to heaven open and higher powers help everyone who asks. Hence the tradition of making wishes, which must be fulfilled. And also there was a tradition of Christmas-New Year's fortune-telling and not like them have come down to our days - girlish entertainment with guessing the betrothed. Previously, the whole family used to guess for the harvest. For example, several heaps of different crops were left in the yard at night: wheat, rye, barley. And in the morning they checked on which haystack there is more frost, that culture will be the most prolific next year. There was also the belief that, as you celebrate the New Year, you will spend the next twelve months, therefore it was customary not to swear, not to argue, but having gathered at the same table with the whole family, to have a tasty and well-fed supper.
What are the traditions in your country?