New Year in Ukraine
New Year’s Day in the Ukraine is celebrated in a similar way that Christmas is celebrated in many countries. For starters, it is a time when many Ukrainians decorate their Christmas tree and buy presents to give to one another. Children in the Ukraine receive gifts from Ded Moroz, which is a similar character to the modern day Santa Claus. Many people prepare dinners and arrange parties to celebrate the New Year.
Traditionally, prior to midnight between New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, a presidential speech is broadcast nationally. As Ukraine approaches the New Year, many people raise a toast to drink to the New Year and as they enter the New Year, they congratulate each other. Fireworks are also lit to celebrate January 1.
Public Life
New Year’s Day is a national holiday in the Ukraine so schools, banks and public offices are closed. If a holiday falls on a weekend, the Monday after the weekend is a day off for many people. Taxis and public transport options are generally available but it is best to check with the relevant transport authorities on schedules and ticket availability.
Background
New Year’s Day on January 1 marks the start of a new year according to the Gregorian calendar. It is celebrated in many countries worldwide including the Ukraine.
Symbols
Ded Moroz (also spelled as Did Moroz) is known as Father Frost, the Ukrainian and Russian version of Santa Claus. He is characterized in cartoons, images, and in theatrical plays. His coat is long and embroidered with silver stars and crosses. He wears a red hat embroidered with pearls, as well as mittens, a belt, boots, and a staff made of silver or crystal. He was traditionally a symbol of winter, and is often accompanied by his granddaughter Snegurochka
Traditionally, prior to midnight between New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, a presidential speech is broadcast nationally. As Ukraine approaches the New Year, many people raise a toast to drink to the New Year and as they enter the New Year, they congratulate each other. Fireworks are also lit to celebrate January 1.
Public Life
New Year’s Day is a national holiday in the Ukraine so schools, banks and public offices are closed. If a holiday falls on a weekend, the Monday after the weekend is a day off for many people. Taxis and public transport options are generally available but it is best to check with the relevant transport authorities on schedules and ticket availability.
Background
New Year’s Day on January 1 marks the start of a new year according to the Gregorian calendar. It is celebrated in many countries worldwide including the Ukraine.
Symbols
Ded Moroz (also spelled as Did Moroz) is known as Father Frost, the Ukrainian and Russian version of Santa Claus. He is characterized in cartoons, images, and in theatrical plays. His coat is long and embroidered with silver stars and crosses. He wears a red hat embroidered with pearls, as well as mittens, a belt, boots, and a staff made of silver or crystal. He was traditionally a symbol of winter, and is often accompanied by his granddaughter Snegurochka
