Christmas in Russia and about 15 other countries is celebrated every year on January 7th rather than December 25th. The Russians start their year with around 10 vacation days which begin with the New Year celebrations and culminate in the Christmas festivities.
The primary reason for this is the fact that the Russian orthodox church follows the Julian calendar which is 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar.
One of the key traditions in most Russian families is to buy (if families have the money) or decorate a Christmas tree. It’s a lot of fun for kids and adults alike.
Whether its dinners at home or fun outside, the atmosphere is truly festive as the Russians surely know how to party.
Note: All the pictures are taken in and around the Red Square and credits go to my Russian colleagues.
Linking to Day Five Blogchatter: Half Marathon
peppylady (Dora)
So they celebrate Christmas around epiphany. Sure are pretty photos.
Coffee is on
whimsicalcompass
Wow. I had no clue about them following the Julian calendar. Fantastic post and lovely images. 🙂
Saumy Nagayach (@saumynagayach)
Nice captures 🙂