If someone decides to celebrate Christmas in the Ukrainian way, they will encounter our Ukrainian survival quest—the 12 Sacred Dishes. Knowing these rules will help you live to see tomorrow.

Ukrainian Christmas porridge (Kutia): This is not just porridge. It is our Christmas superfood, which, according to legend, brings good luck for the whole year. Task #1: Eat at least a full spoonful without comment, even if it feels like you are chewing on holy pebbles. Yes, you can't add mayonnaise or sausage to it. At the same time, need to put on a serious face, praise your grandmother, and only then can gain freedom... until the next dish.

The 12-Dish Marathon. A real “Fast and Furious”: When I say that everyone needs to try all 12, I'm not joking. It's an endurance test! The battle for dumplings, borscht, mushrooms begins... The only goal is to save room for Kalach (our divine donuts). Remember the rule: Donuts > Everything Else. If someone offers a second helping of Kuti, need to say: “Thank you, but I'm saving room for the 12th dish.”

Holy Sheaf (Didukh): that stylish sheaf of wheat in the corner is our Didukh. It's not a new broom, hamster food, and, God forbid, a place to throw dirty socks. It is a symbol of the harvest and ancestors. Just treat it like a member of the family who deserves respect.

The invasion of the Carolers: Around 7 p.m. (or earlier, if they are energetic children), people in strange costumes will come knocking on our door and sing loud songs. These are the Carolers. Our mission: don't hide under the table, but quickly find some change in your pocket (the more, the better they sing) and sincerely admire the star on a stick. If you are asked to join the Nativity scene, remember: there is a danger of becoming the main contender for the role of the Bear or the Goat.

Merry Christmas! The main thing I want is for everyone to finally relax, stop thinking about work, and just enjoy the Holy Holiday.
And remember, after that, you will definitely be given the most delicious Kalach to take with you!