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Old New Year celebrated in Russia

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Old New Year celebrated in Russia


14.01.2022


Photo: mos.ru (CC BY 4.0)

Russians celebrate the Old New Year on January, 14. It is based on the discrepancy between the Julian and Gregorian calendars. It was introduced in Russia in 1918 right after December 31. That is why 1918 started with 14 January. 

Russians keep the tradition to celebrate the New Year two times, on January, 1st and 14th. In many families, the Christmas tree, decorated on the eve of the New Year, is sure to “survive” until the old New Year. Entertainment programs for this day are prepared by the state authorities and TV channels. Special promotions are held in some museums, concert halls, libraries.

Before Peter the Great Russian New Year was celebrated twice, in March and then in September. Under the decree of Peter I from 1699 the New Year was moved to January, 1 by the Julian calendar. 

The Russian Orthodox Church notes that the old New Year is not celebrated in the church. This day falls on the great feast of the Circumcision of the Lord and the memory of St. Basil the Great.

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