Experience Christmas in Kyiv: A Festive Wonderland
Kyiv may not be the first city that comes to mind for Christmas travel. However, visiting the Ukrainian capital during the festive season may change your mind completely. In December and January, this eastern European metropolis transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland, featuring cozy markets, delightful street food, impressive ancient cathedrals, and vibrant traditional celebrations.
Get into the Festive Spirit on St Nicholas Day
Ukraine celebrates St Nicholas Day on 19 December. This day feels like a warm-up for Christmas, with people gifting each other sweet treats. A few days earlier, on 16 December, the Christmas fair at historic Kontraktova Ploscha in Kyiv officially brings the holiday spirit to the capital. Expect rows of charming wooden houses selling various local delights, handmade goods, and warm wine. The main Christmas tree is erected on 19 December at St Sophia’s Square, near the magnificent St Sophia’s Cathedral. Arrive at 5 PM to witness the stunning moment when the tree is illuminated with thousands of lights. This year it will showcase over 500 toys and 3 kilometers of garlands. For the best view of Kyiv’s Christmas fair, head to the top of St Sophia Cathedral’s bell tower.
Join in the New Year’s Eve Party
Each year, the Folk Ukraine initiative designs the festive look of the Ukrainian capital. This season’s theme is Northern Lights, promising a visual adventure across various celebration sites. New Year’s Eve in Kyiv is arguably the biggest open-air party in the country. Thousands gather at the main festive locations—St Sophia’s Square and Kontraktova Ploscha—to enjoy concerts, delicious street food, and plenty of entertainment for children. Typically, the New Year celebration lasts all night; visitors can choose from numerous Kyiv bars and clubs to continue the revelry. It’s essential to note that lots of horilka (vodka) and bubbly add to the excitement.
Experience Traditional Orthodox Christmas
While the New Year celebration has a lively atmosphere, Christmas in Kyiv offers a more solemn holiday focus on family and tradition. As the majority of the Ukrainian population follows Orthodox Christianity, Christmas is celebrated on 7 January according to the Julian calendar. A significant tradition is Svyatyi Vechir (Holy Supper), where families gather around the dinner table with 12 dishes representing the 12 months of the year. For a deeper understanding of this holiday’s true spirit, visit the Pyrohiv Museum of Folk Architecture, which organizes a Christmas celebration with singing, dancing, and sampling of festive dishes.
