Traditions and taboos of Christmas Eve: folk omens for January 6, 2025

      Find out which weather signs were considered prophetic, which traditions were strictly observed, and what was absolutely forbidden on the eve of the great feast

      Our ancestors closely watched nature on Christmas Eve (Sochelnik), seeing it as an omen. A clear, sunny sky promised a bountiful harvest in summer. A thaw foretold a warm, sunny May. A blizzard and heavy snowfall promised an abundance of honey in the coming year, and freshly fallen snow meant good news. Bright stars in the sky predicted a warm summer, while a dim starry sky foretold bad weather. Morning frost was considered a sure sign of a large wheat harvest. Restless behavior of birds or a cat washing itself frequently foretold a drop in temperature and a blizzard.

      What could and should be done on Christmas Eve

      The day was filled with strict rules and special rituals. Fast until the first star: Until the first evening star appeared in the sky a strict fast was observed. This custom symbolized the anticipation of Christ’s birth. Festive meal (Holy Evening): After the fast the family gathered at a table covered with a clean white tablecloth. They set out 12 Lenten dishes (for the number of the apostles) and placed a sheaf of hay in memory of Christ’s manger. Before sitting down, they would blow on a chair so as not to disturb the soul of a deceased relative, for whom they also left a place setting and food. Care for the livestock: Domestic animals were fed generously so that they would “not complain to God.” Caroling: At nightfall young people and children went from yard to yard singing carols and announcing the birth of the Savior. Homeowners rewarded them with treats. Gift to godparents: Godchildren brought their godparents an evening meal (dinner), and the godparents gave them sweets.

      Strict prohibitions on January 6

      Breaking these prohibitions, it was believed, could bring misfortune. Do not refuse hospitality: It was forbidden to turn away carolers or uninvited guests — this was said to mean luck would leave the house. Ban on quarrels and dark clothing: One must not quarrel, use foul language, or hold grudges — you had to make peace before the first star. Black clothing was also forbidden; only light-colored outfits were allowed. Ban on work: Sewing, weaving, and other handicraft work foretold misfortune.

      Ban on visiting the cemetery: People feared visiting graves on this day, believing it could “call” the dead to follow. Do not feed the birds: It was believed that birds fed on Christmas Eve would peck up the garden in summer. Do not break the fast: Eating before the first star, according to the omen, threatened poverty and hunger. Following these ancient traditions, folk belief held, helped to properly prepare for Christmas, ensure the family’s well-being, and secure a good harvest in the coming year. Photo by the author

      Yulia Kazamarova

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      Traditions and prohibitions of Christmas Eve: folk omens for January 6, 2025

      Find out which weather omens were considered prophetic, which traditions were strictly observed, and what was absolutely forbidden on the eve of the great feast

      Our ancestors closely watched nature on Christmas Eve, considering it an omen. 09:27 06.01.2026 Zainsk News - Zainsk

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      Find out which weather omens were considered prophetic, which traditions were strictly observed, and what was absolutely forbidden on the eve of the great feast

      Our ancestors closely watched nature on Christmas Eve, considering it an omen. 09:21 06.01.2026 Zainsk-Inform - Zainsk

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