Belarusian Customs and Traditions

Belarus has deep historical roots in the past that's why its customs and traditions often have a fascinating history. The most ancient Belarusian traditions and holidays can be classified according to four seasons of the year: spring, summer, autumn and winter.

In ancient times the arrival of spring reassured mankind. It was a sign that life would return to the land, crops would grow and existence was assured. Belarus has a remarkable range of spring-time celebrations, for example Calling of Spring. This holiday dates back to the pagan times.

One of the greatest Christian holidays in Belarus has always been Easter Sunday. There are two Easter holidays in Belarus: the Roman Catholic and the Russian Orthodox ones with painted eggs and special pies.

The summer festivities start in July beginning with the greatest holiday Kupalle. The essential part of this celebration is the great fire. The oiled wooden wheel is set on fire to symbolize the sun. According to the belief this fire has a purifying power. Young couples hand in hand must jump it over. One of the main traditions of Kupalle is search for the mythic paparats-kvetka (fern flower). Those, who find it, will enjoy good luck and their wishes will come true.

Autumn has its own holidays. They are traditionally connected with the end of the harvesting time. In ancient times it has always been the wedding season. That's why so many traditions and customs are connected with marriage, for example match-making, bride-show, wedding itself, special songs, games etc.

In late autumn we have Dziady. It is a day for commemoration of the dead relatives. The special ritual food is cooked for Dziady dinner. According to the tradition part of the food and drink is left in a special plate and glass for the dead. At this day families are going to the cemeteries to take care of the graves.

The winter solstice used to be a time for meditation on the year gone by and of hope for the year to come. That's why people asked the sun to come back, they sang songs to honor it. Thus the Kaliady holiday appeared, which later became the integral part of Christmas, the greatest holiday in the year.

New Year is widely celebrated all over the country. Preparations to this holiday start a couple of weeks before. The towns and cities of Belarus put on holiday attire; illumination, New Year trees in the squares and New Year fairs add to the holiday mood. The culmination of the festivity is the December 31— January 1 night, when various concerts and open-air merrymaking take place. January 1 is an official holiday.

The Belarusian people are proud of the country's past and its traditional culture. Different medieval festivals are arranged every year. The spectators can admire performances in costume, combats of knights and ancient music.

The Belarusian people have always remembered, respected and tried to celebrate their national holidays, follow customs and traditions.