For almost three years, Ukraine has been ravaged by a full-scale war, affecting Christmas celebrations in millions of homes. 

The war is taking its toll on most people. Families are torn apart, many have lost a loved one, had their homes destroyed or are living with injuries and trauma. Livelihoods have been lost and the economy is in shambles. And nearly half of the 37 million inhabitants need humanitarian aid to survive. In the midst of all the suffering comes the Christmas holiday. Before the war, cities and towns were decorated with Christmas trees, lights and decorations. Christmas markets and festivals also created a festive atmosphere. This may still be the case in the capital Kyiv and other large cities, but along the front line in the East – where the war is most ravaging – Christmas will probably not be as visible.

Lack of water and heat

Thousands of homes have been damaged or destroyed, including hospitals and schools. And not least important infrastructure for water, electricity and heating. Therefore, it is now being warned that this winter will be the worst since February 2022. The hardest hit are the villages along the front line in Eastern Ukraine. Celebrating Christmas in houses where the cold seeps in through holes in windows or roofs is going to be rough. Without electricity and water, it will be difficult to cook and create coziness. For thousands of Ukrainians, this is the reality.  

Breaking with Russian traditions

This Christmas will be the second in which those belonging to the Orthodox Church celebrate Christmas on December 25 like the rest of the West. Last year, the government passed a law that requires everyone to celebrate Christmas then, and not on January 7. This is to break with the Russian Orthodox tradition of following the Julian calendar - to the Gregorian calendar and the traditions of Western countries. When the law was passed, a Catholic couple told Reuters that the law could help strengthen the country in a difficult time, and be a symbol of the rebirth of traditions.  

Twelve dishes on the table

The war is not as widespread across the country, so some will probably celebrate as they always have. On Christmas Eve, December 24, families gather for Sviata Vecheria – also known as Holy Dinner. Preparations begin at dawn, and dinner is eaten after the first star has appeared in the sky. The meal consists of twelve dishes, symbolizing the twelve disciples, and the main course is Kutia – boiled wheat mixed with poppy seeds and honey.  

On Christmas morning, December 25, people greet each other by saying, "Christ is born!" and "Let us praise him!" Then families go to church for Christmas prayers, before visiting relatives near and far.