Celebrating Christmas in Romania
Like many other countries around the world, Christmas is an important holiday in Romania. It is a time to celebrate with family and friends, exchange gifts, and enjoy special traditions. Romanian Christmas traditions are unique, with a mix of influences from Western Europe and the Balkans, as well as local customs and folklore.
Origins of Romanian Christmas Traditions
Romanian Christmas traditions have their roots in ancient pagan rituals and Christian beliefs. One of the most important symbols of Romanian Christmas is the star, which represents the Star of Bethlehem. Other traditions, such as the use of evergreen branches and the lighting of candles, have their origins in pre-Christian times and were adopted by the Christian Church.
The Name of Christmas in Romania
The Romanian name for Christmas is "Crăciun". This word comes from the Latin "creatio", meaning "birth", and is also related to the word "crux", meaning "cross". In Romania, Christmas is celebrated on December 25th, as in most of the Western world, but there are also other important days during the Christmas season, such as Christmas Eve and the Feast of the Epiphany.
The Traditional Christmas Greeting
In Romania, the traditional Christmas greeting is "Crăciun fericit!" which means "Merry Christmas!" This is often accompanied by the exchange of gifts and hugs. Romanians also say "La mulți ani!" which means "Many happy returns!" during the Christmas season, and this is especially important on Christmas Day.
Romanian Christmas Food and Drink
Food plays a central role during Romanian Christmas celebrations. Traditional dishes include sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), cozonac (a sweet bread with nuts and raisins), and pork roast with potatoes. Drinks such as mulled wine and tuica (a type of plum brandy) are also popular during the Christmas season.
Traditional Romanian Christmas Carols
Romanian Christmas carols, or colinde, are an important part of Christmas celebrations. These songs are usually sung by groups of children and adults who go from house to house, spreading Christmas cheer. Some of the most popular carols include "O, ce veste minunată!" ("Oh, what wonderful news!") and "Trei păstori" ("Three shepherds").
Christmas Decorations in Romania
Romanians decorate their homes with traditional ornaments such as the "Cucuteni star" (a clay star) and "ursul" (a hand-carved wooden bear). They also use evergreen branches, candles, and strings of lights to create a festive atmosphere. In some parts of the country, people also decorate their cars and horses with bells and ribbons.
Romanian Christmas Eve Customs
Christmas Eve, or Ajunul Crăciunului, is an important part of Romanian Christmas celebrations. Many families fast during the day and then have a special dinner in the evening, which includes fish dishes such as carp or herring. After dinner, children go outside to sing carols and receive treats such as fruit and nuts from their neighbors.
Christmas Day Traditions in Romania
On Christmas Day, families attend church services and then have a big feast. It is also traditional to visit friends and relatives and exchange gifts. In some parts of Romania, people also participate in a ritual called "pluguşorul", where they go from house to house, dressed in traditional costumes, and sing carols and recite poems.
Romanian Christmas Gifts and Gift-Giving
In Romania, it is traditional to exchange gifts on Christmas Day. Children often receive toys and sweets, while adults may give each other small gifts such as handmade crafts or traditional clothing. It is also common to give gifts of food and drink, such as homemade wine or jams.
Romanian Orthodox Christmas Celebrations
In addition to December 25th, the Romanian Orthodox Church celebrates Christmas on January 7th, according to the Julian calendar. This is known as "Crăciunul pe stil vechi" ("Old Style Christmas") and is celebrated by Orthodox Christians throughout the world.
The Christmas Season in Romania: Conclusion
Romanian Christmas traditions are rich and unique, reflecting the country’s history and culture. From the traditional food and drink to the singing of carols and the exchange of gifts, Christmas is a time of joy and celebration for Romanians of all ages. Whether you are visiting Romania during the Christmas season or simply learning about its traditions from afar, there is much to admire and appreciate in this festive holiday.
