TRADITIONS
Believers are preparing for the celebration, holding a forty-day fast, on Christmas Eve it is especially strict, the church charter prescribes eating sochivo (scalded wheat with honey) on this day, hence the tradition to call this day Christmas Eve. Strict fasting ended only with the appearance of the first star, which symbolized the birth of the baby Jesus. For the festive meal, 12 Lenten dishes were prepared (according to the number of apostles), and kutya (rice and wheat porridge with raisins, dried apricots or nuts) was placed at the head of the table. The house has long been decorated with fir branches and candles, gifts were placed under the festive fir tree, symbolizing the gifts brought by the Magi to the baby Jesus. It was customary to start Christmas Day by having celebrated the liturgy, only then did the merry festivities begin.
From Christmas night to Epiphany, Christmas divination continued. People guessed at desires, tried to predict the future, unmarried girls sought to find out about their betrothed-mummers and future family life.

WHAT IS GIVEN FOR THIS HOLIDAY
It is customary to give a Christmas gift from hand to hand. One of the most popular gifts is the Christmas candle, which symbolizes the light of Jesus Christ, these candles are usually massive and ornate.
Another gift is a Christmas wreath, which is a symbol of eternal life. It is made from spruce branches, decorated with toys and bows. This wreath is hung on the front door. It is believed that it attracts love and health to the house.
A favorite Christmas souvenir by many is the figurine of an angel who announced the birth of Christ.
They decorate the festive table, Christmas tree, put next to the candles.
The bells symbolize the ringing of bells announcing the birth of Jesus. They can also be hung on the Christmas tree, doors, Christmas wreaths.