Ukraine's Wartime Christmas: Traditions, Calendar Changes, and Holiday Spending

Despite the ongoing war with Russia, Ukraine continues to celebrate Christmas, with the Orthodox Church of Ukraine and the government declaring December 25 as the official date. Ukrainian carols, known as koliadky, reflect the country's cultural heritage and address social situations. These traditions, including the Vertep folk theater play and workshops to teach lesser-known koliadky, demonstrate the resilience of the Ukrainian people in preserving their culture amidst the conflict. Artists are also using folklore to express resistance, with new compositions dedicated to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.