On the eve of Orthodox Christmas, a star 🌟 is placed at the center of everything — a symbol of hope and the light that guided the Wise Men. In many Ukrainian homes, a child might carry a symbolic star during caroling, 🎶 or it might be hung above the dinner table. Isn’t it romantic to think about gazing at the same star and making a wish together?

Christmas Eve dinner, or Sviat Vechir, revolves around twelve traditional dishes, symbolizing the twelve apostles. No meat or dairy is served, but the table is rich with flavors like kutia (a sweet grain dish with honey 🍯 and poppy seeds), vareniki, 🥟 pickled vegetables, 🥒 and borscht. 🥘 Sharing these dishes feels special — like opening your heart one bite at a time.
Which dish would you try first if we were to celebrate together? 😉

Ukrainian Christmas carols, or kolyadky, 🎶🎄 aren’t just about singing. Groups of carolers bring music and laughter to homes, often dressing in traditional costumes and acting out stories.

Orthodox Christmas isn’t just a holiday — it’s an invitation to connect, to reflect, and to celebrate the simple joys of life. If these traditions touched your heart even a little, maybe it’s a sign that we should share them someday. 🌟