125+ Fun Facts About Christmas in Russia: Discover Traditions, History & Surprising Customs

Ever wondered why some folks are still celebrating Christmas when you’re already back at work in January? Welcome to the enchanting world of Russian Christmas!

Growing up, I always believed my family was fashionably late to everything, but Russians have made “better late than never” into a celebratory art form.

If you’re curious about snow-covered cathedrals, enigmatic Grandfather Frost, and why January 7th is the real deal in Russia, you’re in for a lovely treat.

Bundle up, grab some hot tea, and let’s sleigh through these amazing facts that’ll make you experience Christmas through an entirely different lens!

Fun Facts About Christmas in Russia for Kids

1. Russian children don’t wait for Santa Claus—they wait for Ded Moroz, which means “Grandfather Frost,” and he’s way cooler than his Western cousin.
2. Ded Moroz wears a long blue or silver coat instead of red, making him look like a winter wizard straight out of a fairy tale.
3. He doesn’t travel alone—his granddaughter Snegurochka, the Snow Maiden, accompanies him everywhere with her sparkling crown and gentle smile.
4. Instead of a sleigh pulled by reindeer, Ded Moroz rides a traditional Russian troika, which is a sleigh pulled by three horses.
5. Russian kids don’t hang stockings by the fireplace; gifts are placed under the New Year tree instead.
6. The celebration lasts almost two weeks, from New Year’s Eve through January 7th, which means double the fun and festivities.
7. Children sing traditional songs called “kolyadki” while going door to door, kind of like caroling but with special Russian melodies.
8. Many kids receive gifts twice—once on New Year’s Day and again on Orthodox Christmas Day.
9. The Russian Christmas tree is actually called a “New Year tree” because it was more associated with New Year celebrations during Soviet times.
10. Ice sculptures and snow castles are common decorations, turning entire villages into winter wonderlands that kids absolutely adore.
11. Traditional Russian Christmas stories feature talking animals, magical snowflakes, and adventures in the frozen forest.
12. Kids often make handmade ornaments from straw, paper, and birch bark to decorate their homes.
13. The first star appearing in the sky on Christmas Eve is considered magical, and children make wishes upon seeing it.
14. Russian children learn special Christmas poems and perform them for family gatherings, earning applause and treats.
15. Hot chocolate in Russia often comes with a twist of orange or cinnamon, making it extra special for little ones.
16. Building snowmen is practically mandatory, and some families create entire snow villages in their yards.
17. Kids dress up in festive costumes during the holidays, with snowflake and animal outfits being the most popular choices.
18. Traditional puppet theaters called “vertep” tell the nativity story in a fun, engaging way that captures children’s imaginations.
19. Russian honey cookies shaped like stars, animals, and bells are decorated by kids as a holiday activity.
20. The holiday season includes fun outdoor activities like sledding, ice skating, and massive snowball fights that entire neighborhoods join.
21. Children receive blessing from elders by kissing their hands, a beautiful tradition that teaches respect and family values.
22. Russian kids believe that if they’re good all year, the Snow Maiden will personally deliver their most wished-for gift.
23. The sound of church bells ringing on Christmas morning is said to bring good luck to everyone who hears it.
24. Many Russian children attend special Christmas plays where they dress as shepherds, angels, and the three wise men.
25. The tradition of “fortune-telling” games is popular among older kids, predicting fun things about the coming year using candles and mirrors.

Christmas Traditions in Russia

1. The Russian Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar, which is 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar used in the West.
2. Christmas preparations begin with a 40-day fasting period called the Nativity Fast, ending on Christmas Eve.
3. On Christmas Eve, families wait for the first star to appear in the sky before beginning their feast, symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem.
4. The traditional Christmas Eve dinner consists of 12 dishes, representing the 12 apostles of Jesus Christ.
5. Kutya, a sweet grain pudding with honey and poppy seeds, must be the first dish tasted during the Christmas meal.
6. Homes are decorated with straw to remember the manger where Jesus was born, placed under tablecloths or in corners.
7. The main Christmas service, called the Divine Liturgy, often begins at midnight and can last several hours.
8. Russians exchange the greeting “Khristos Razdayetsya!” meaning “Christ is born!” with the response “Slavim Yevo!” meaning “Let us glorify Him!”
9. Many families keep a candle burning in the window throughout Christmas night to guide the Holy Family.
10. Traditional nativity scenes called “vertep” are set up in homes and churches, often featuring intricate handmade figurines.
11. Caroling groups travel from house to house carrying a star on a pole, singing ancient hymns for treats and blessings.
12. Breaking bread together symbolizes unity, and the eldest family member traditionally breaks and shares a special Christmas bread.
13. Some families place hay or straw under the dinner table to honor the humble birth of Christ in a stable.
14. Wearing new clothes on Christmas Day brings good fortune for the coming year, so many Russians buy special festive outfits.
15. The Christmas meal is purely vegetarian until after the midnight service when meat dishes can finally be enjoyed.
16. Attending church on Christmas is considered essential, even for those who don’t regularly practice their faith throughout the year.
17. Icons are given prominent places in homes during Christmas, often decorated with embroidered cloths and fresh evergreen branches.
18. Many Russians visit cemeteries on Christmas to remember deceased loved ones and leave candles on their graves.
19. The tradition of blessing homes involves a priest visiting houses to sprinkle holy water and offer prayers for the family.
20. Traditional Russian folk dances and music performances are held in community centers throughout the Christmas season.
21. Making and giving homemade gifts is valued more than store-bought presents, showing personal care and creativity.
22. The Christmas tree stays up until January 19th, the Feast of Epiphany, extending the holiday spirit for nearly two weeks.
23. Some regions have “Christmas Battles” where young people engage in friendly competitions of strength and skill, celebrating vitality in winter.
24. Fortune-telling traditions on Christmas Eve involve melting wax, reading tea leaves, and interpreting dreams for the new year ahead.
25. The holiday ends with Epiphany celebrations where brave souls take icy plunges into blessed lakes and rivers for spiritual cleansing.

Russian Christmas Food

1. Kutya takes center stage as the most important dish, made from wheat berries, honey, ground poppy seeds, and sometimes nuts.
2. Sochivo, a lenten porridge similar to kutya, is eaten on Christmas Eve and is considered a purifying dish.
3. Borscht served cold or hot is a Christmas staple, rich with beets, cabbage, and vegetables but no meat before midnight.
4. Herring under a fur coat sounds strange but tastes amazing—layered salad with herring, potatoes, beets, and mayonnaise.
5. Pirozhki are small baked buns stuffed with various fillings like cabbage, mushrooms, or potatoes, perfect for Christmas gatherings.
6. Olivier salad, Russia’s famous potato salad with vegetables, eggs, and pickles, appears at every holiday table.
7. Pickled vegetables including cucumbers, tomatoes, cabbage, and mushrooms are essential accompaniments to the Christmas feast.
8. Blini, thin pancakes similar to crepes, are served with honey, jam, or caviar during the celebration.
9. Pelmeni, Russian dumplings filled with meat, are a favorite post-midnight dish when the fast is finally broken.
10. Kissel, a fruit jelly drink made from berries and starch, is served as a traditional sweet beverage.
11. Gingerbread cookies called pryaniki are baked in elaborate shapes and decorated with colorful icing and designs.
12. Medovik, a honey layer cake, appears at many Christmas celebrations with its sweet, delicate flavor winning hearts.
13. Beef Stroganoff might grace the table after midnight, bringing warmth and richness to the late-night feast.
14. Mushroom dishes are particularly popular during the fasting period, including mushroom soup and marinated mushrooms.
15. Shchi, a traditional cabbage soup, warms everyone up during the cold Russian winter nights.
16. Stuffed cabbage rolls called golubtsy are filled with rice and vegetables during the fast, then with meat afterward.
17. Dried fruits and nuts are placed in bowls throughout the house, available for snacking during the extended celebration.
18. Uzvar, a traditional drink made from dried fruits boiled with honey, is served both hot and cold.
19. Black bread, a Russian staple, is blessed and shared among family members as a symbol of unity.
20. Caviar becomes a luxury treat for those who can afford it, served on blini or simply with butter and bread.
21. Honey cakes shaped like animals, stars, and traditional symbols are given as gifts to children and neighbors.
22. Jellied fish dish called zalivnoe is prepared days in advance, showcasing culinary skills and patience.
23. Kvass, a fermented beverage made from rye bread, is enjoyed by adults throughout the celebration.
24. Cranberry kisel with its tart sweetness balances the rich, heavy dishes on the Christmas table.
25. Napoleon cake, with its multiple layers of puff pastry and cream, has become a modern Russian Christmas favorite.

Christmas in Russia 2025

1. This year, Orthodox Christmas falls on Tuesday, January 7th, 2025, following the Julian calendar tradition.
2. Moscow’s Red Square will transform into a winter festival with ice sculptures, markets, and spectacular light displays.
3. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour will host the main Christmas service attended by thousands of faithful worshippers.
4. Digital innovations now allow Russians abroad to virtually attend Christmas services from their ancestral churches.
5. Social media campaigns encouraging handmade gifts over commercial products are gaining popularity among younger Russians.
6. Climate change discussions have entered Christmas celebrations, with eco-friendly decorations becoming more common.
7. Virtual caroling groups have emerged, connecting Russian diaspora communities worldwide through video calls.
8. Moscow’s GUM department store will feature an extended Christmas market running through mid-January.
9. Special Christmas trains decorated with lights and traditional ornaments will run between major Russian cities.
10. Traditional vertep performances are being modernized with projection mapping and interactive elements for children.
11. The Russian Orthodox Church has expanded its online presence, streaming services to reach global audiences.
12. Food delivery services now offer traditional Christmas meal packages for families unable to cook elaborate feasts.
13. Christmas charity initiatives have grown significantly, with communities organizing gift drives for underprivileged children.
14. Museums across Russia will offer special Christmas-themed exhibitions showcasing historical traditions and artifacts.
15. The trend of “slow Christmas” is catching on, encouraging families to disconnect from devices and focus on togetherness.
16. Regional celebrations in Siberia, St. Petersburg, and other areas maintain distinct local customs worth exploring.
17. Christmas concerts featuring traditional Orthodox chants alongside modern interpretations are scheduled nationwide.
18. Winter sports events coincide with Christmas celebrations, combining athletic competitions with festive activities.
19. Documentary series about Russian Christmas traditions are being produced for educational and entertainment purposes.
20. Craft workshops teaching traditional ornament-making, cooking, and caroling are fully booked across major cities.
21. Environmental groups promote sustainable Christmas trees, with rental and replanting programs gaining traction.
22. Pet blessing ceremonies on Christmas have become popular, with families bringing animals to receive holy water blessings.
23. The government has declared extended holiday periods, allowing families more time together during the season.
24. International cultural exchanges bring Russians together with other Orthodox communities for joint celebrations.
25. Health-conscious Russians are creating lighter versions of traditional dishes without losing authentic flavors and meanings.

Why Does Russia Celebrate Christmas on January 7th

1. The Russian Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar established by Julius Caesar in 45 BC.
2. Most of the world switched to the Gregorian calendar in 1582, but the Orthodox Church maintained the old system.
3. The 13-day difference between calendars means December 25th on the Julian calendar falls on January 7th Gregorian.
4. This wasn’t always the case—before the Russian Revolution, Christmas was celebrated with the rest of Europe.
5. The Bolsheviks suppressed religious holidays after 1917, attempting to eliminate Christmas celebrations entirely.
6. New Year’s Day became the main winter celebration during Soviet times, replacing Christmas festivities.
7. When religious freedom returned in 1991, the Orthodox Church reinstated Christmas using the traditional Julian calendar.
8. The date connects modern Russians to centuries of tradition and their spiritual ancestors’ practices.
9. Some Russian Orthodox churches outside Russia have adopted the Gregorian calendar, celebrating December 25th instead.
10. The Russian Orthodox Church inside Russia maintains the Julian calendar for all religious observances, not just Christmas.
11. This timing creates a unique extended holiday season from December 31st through January 7th.
12. Many Russians appreciate having their own distinct celebration separate from Western commercial Christmas.
13. The January date means Christmas comes after the excitement of New Year’s, creating two major celebrations.
14. Astronomical considerations factored into the Julian calendar, which was more aligned with solar movements at its creation.
15. The gap between calendars will actually increase by one day every century, potentially reaching 14 days in 2100.
16. Some Orthodox churches celebrate on December 25th Gregorian, while Russia, Serbia, and others keep January 7th.
17. The different date preserves religious identity and cultural distinction in an increasingly globalized world.
18. Historical resistance to Pope Gregory XIII’s calendar reforms motivated Eastern Orthodox Churches to maintain their tradition.
19. For Russians, the January 7th date feels deeply connected to their national and spiritual identity.
20. The calendar difference once helped the Orthodox Church distinguish itself during periods of Catholic-Orthodox tensions.
21. Children’s questions about “two Christmases” provide teaching opportunities about church history and cultural diversity.
22. The Russian government recognizes January 7th as a national holiday, giving everyone the day off work.
23. Having Christmas in January extends the festive spirit and provides something special after Western Christmas ends.
24. Some families with mixed religious backgrounds celebrate both dates, doubling their joy and gift-giving opportunities.
25. The unique timing has actually helped preserve Russian Christmas from excessive commercialization affecting December celebrations worldwide.

Christmas in Russia for Kids

1. Children write letters to Ded Moroz at his official residence in Veliky Ustyug, receiving personalized responses.
2. The magical village of Veliky Ustyug welcomes young visitors year-round to meet Grandfather Frost in person.
3. Kids perform in special Christmas pageants at schools, portraying angels, shepherds, and the nativity scene.
4. Craft activities include making paper snowflakes, decorating gingerbread, and creating traditional straw ornaments.
5. Russian fairy tales about Snegurochka teach children about kindness, winter magic, and family values.
6. Ice skating on frozen ponds and rivers becomes a daily Christmas activity for adventurous youngsters.
7. Children learn traditional Russian carols with beautiful harmonies passed down through generations.
8. Building snow forts and having organized snowball battles keeps kids active during the long winter break.
9. Puppet shows telling the Christmas story captivate young audiences in theaters and community centers.
10. Many children attend Christmas camps where they learn folk dances, songs, and traditional crafts.
11. Hot tea parties with jam, honey, and sweet treats warm kids up after outdoor winter adventures.
12. Russian children receive special Christmas books filled with stories, poems, and activities related to the holiday.
13. Drawing and coloring Christmas scenes helps kids express creativity while learning about religious traditions.
14. Baking sessions with grandmothers teach young ones how to make traditional cookies and pastries.
15. Children participate in church services, sometimes joining the choir or helping with ceremonial tasks.
16. Dress-up games featuring historical Russian costumes let kids experience their cultural heritage firsthand.
17. Treasure hunts through snowy landscapes with clues leading to small gifts keep children entertained for hours.
18. Learning about different regional Christmas customs across Russia’s vast territory becomes a fascinating geography lesson.
19. Charitable activities involve children making cards and gifts for elderly neighbors and those in need.
20. Photography sessions in traditional Russian winter attire create cherished family memories and beautiful keepsakes.
21. Story time featuring legends about winter magic, talking animals, and brave heroes captures young imaginations.
22. Science experiments explaining how ice crystals form help curious minds understand the winter wonderland around them.
23. Children practice hospitality by helping prepare and serve food when guests visit during the holiday season.
24. Evening walks to see Christmas lights and decorations throughout neighborhoods become treasured family traditions.
25. Russian Christmas provides kids with a rich cultural education while creating magical childhood memories they’ll cherish forever.

Best Fun Facts About Christmas in Russia

1. Russia has the world’s largest Orthodox Christian population, making their Christmas celebration globally significant.
2. During Soviet times, Ded Moroz was reimagined as a New Year’s character to secularize the holiday tradition.
3. The Kremlin Christmas Tree lighting ceremony attracts thousands of spectators and is broadcast nationwide.
4. Russian Christmas markets feature traditional crafts like matryoshka dolls, amber jewelry, and hand-painted ornaments.
5. The 40-day Nativity Fast before Christmas is one of the strictest fasting periods in the Orthodox calendar.
6. Some Russian regions experience temperatures below -40°C during Christmas, creating truly extreme winter celebrations.
7. The Russian Christmas carol tradition dates back over a thousand years to pre-Christian winter solstice celebrations.
8. Ded Moroz carries a magical staff that can freeze anything with one touch, according to folklore.
9. The Snow Maiden legend connects to ancient Slavic mythology about winter spirits and nature goddesses.
10. Russian Christmas trees are traditionally decorated with candy, nuts, fruits, and homemade ornaments rather than glass baubles.
11. The celebration combines Christian traditions with ancient pagan customs from Rus’ winter festivals.
12. Troparion, the traditional Christmas hymn, has remained unchanged in Russian Orthodox services for over 1,500 years.
13. Russians exchange three kisses on alternating cheeks when greeting each other during Christmas celebrations.
14. The total Christmas holiday period in Russia can last up to two weeks, making it one of the longest celebrations worldwide.
15. Ice hotels and churches built entirely from frozen water blocks become popular Christmas tourist attractions.
16. Traditional Russian Christmas bells are specifically tuned to create harmonious pealing patterns unique to each church.
17. The Russian word for Christmas, “Rozhdestvo,” literally translates to “birth,” directly referencing Christ’s nativity.
18. Historical Christmas celebrations included bear performances, though this practice thankfully ended long ago.
19. Russians living abroad often celebrate both dates, attending Orthodox services on January 7th and secular celebrations December 25th.
20. The Christmas star ornament topping Russian trees traditionally has eight points representing the Star of Bethlehem.
21. Russian Christmas stamps, coins, and commemorative items become collector’s pieces, especially vintage Soviet-era pieces.
22. The Orthodox Christmas message from the Patriarch is broadcast nationally, similar to royal Christmas speeches elsewhere.
23. Russia’s time zones mean some citizens celebrate Christmas while others are still hours away from January 7th.
24. Traditional Russian winter landscapes have inspired countless Christmas paintings, poems, and musical compositions.
25. Modern Russians are rediscovering pre-revolutionary Christmas traditions, blending old customs with contemporary celebrations for unique festivities.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it—125+ amazing facts about Christmas in Russia that illustrate holiday traditions are as unique as snowflakes!

Whether you’re sharing these insights at your next dinner party, impressing kids with stories about Grandfather Frost, or arranging your own January 7th celebration, you now know that Christmas joy spans calendars and countries.

Next time someone asks why you’re still in the holiday spirit in mid-January, just tell them you’re celebrating Russian-style.

May your days be happy, bright, and perfectly scheduled according to whichever calendar makes your heart happiest—because in the end, Christmas is about love, family, and maybe an extra week of festive sweets!