Khrystos Rodyvsya.
Which translates to Merry Christmas in Ukrainian as Jan. 7 marks the occasion.
“It’s much different than the Dec. 25 celebrations,” said Father Taras Makowsky with the Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in Saskatoon. “Presents are given out on Dec. 19 for Saint Nicholas Day, so it’s all about family.”
The big focus for Ukrainian Christmas is all about prayer service, which happened at midnight Saturday morning.
“Then we get to visit people, visiting loved ones, and going Christmas caroling to spread the cheer,” Makowsky said.
Christmas Eve on Jan. 6 is kicked off with 12 meatless dishes for a fast.
“Dinner on Christmas day consists of meat dishes since the fast is over,” Makowsky said.
Makowsky said he’ll be busy with family Saturday.
“Starting at lunchtime we have children caroling at our house,” he said. “Then we are headed to my wife parents in Saskatoon to go Christmas caroling.”
Ukrainian New Years is next Saturday, Jan. 14th which is a huge celebration for them with a dance.