Preparing for Christmas Eve: Cleansing and Expecting a Miracle
In Ukrainian homes, preparations for Christmas Eve begin long before January 6. Housewives clean the house, symbolizing not only physical but also spiritual cleansing. This day is the time to end all quarrels and reconcile, because all family members should gather at the festive table in peace and harmony.

It is also important to fast so that in the evening, after the appearance of the first star, you can sit down for the Holy Supper, which marks the birth of Jesus Christ. The first star is a symbol of the Star of Bethlehem, which showed the way to the Magi to the baby Christ.

12 Lenten Dishes: Symbolism and Taste
The main attribute of Christmas Eve is the festive table, on which 12 Lenten dishes are traditionally served. This number symbolizes the 12 apostles. The central place on the table is occupied by kutia - a dish of boiled wheat with honey, poppy seeds and nuts. Kutia symbolizes abundance, health and family unity.

Among other dishes you can find:

Dumplings with cabbage or potatoes
Cabbage rolls with Lenten filling
Borscht with mushrooms
Uzvar (dried fruit compote)
Fried fish
Pickled and salted vegetables
Each dish on the table has a deep symbolic meaning, reflecting gratitude for the harvest and a prayer for well-being.

Festive Rituals
Before starting the meal, the whole family gathers at the table, prays and lights a candle. The owner of the house sprinkles the corners of the room with holy water to protect the house from evil spirits.

Another important tradition is didukh - a symbolic sheaf of hay or wheat, which is placed in the corner of the room. Didukh symbolizes the ancestors, who are also present at the festive table that evening.

Hay is placed under the tablecloth, reminding us of the nativity scene where Jesus was born. Some families also leave a plate of kutia on the table overnight - as a treat for the souls of deceased loved ones.

Carols: Joy and Unity
After the Holy Supper, the time for carols begins - cheerful songs that glorify the Nativity of Christ. Children and adults gather in groups, go to neighbors' houses, perform traditional carols and receive treats.

A special place among carols is occupied by "Shchedryk", which became famous throughout the world thanks to the music of the Ukrainian composer Nikolai Leontovych.

Symbol of Unity and Hope
Christmas Eve in Ukraine is not just a religious holiday. It is a time when families gather together, remember the traditions of their ancestors and are filled with warmth. On this evening, the boundaries of time are erased, and a sense of wonder is in the air.

Even in the most difficult periods of life, Ukrainians continue to celebrate Christmas Eve, preserving their culture and passing it on to future generations. This is a holiday that reminds us of the importance of love, unity and faith in the best.