Is Christmas a Popular Holiday in Romania?

Christmas is a major annual celebration in Romania, much like it is in many other European countries. It marks the beginning of a festive season that starts from November 30 with St. Andrew's Day and extends into the New Year. For Romanians, the holiday is integral to their winter celebrations, deeply rooted in both religious and cultural practices.

Winter Festivities and Their Beginnings

The celebration of Christmas in Romania begins with a rich array of events and traditions. The festive period starts on November 30 with St. Andrew's Day, a significant feast that ushers in the winter season. This day is not just about celebrating but also about preparing for the upcoming holiday. On December 1, Romania celebrates National Day or Great Union Day, a national holiday that commemorates the reunification of Transylvania, Bessarabia, and Bukovina with Romania. This celebration is marked by special events, parades, and public gatherings.

Traditional Practices and Customs

Christmas in Romania is filled with unique and meaningful traditions. One of the most widespread practices is the sacrifice of pigs, a ritual deeply embedded in Romanian folklore. The connection between Christmas and pig slaughter is so strong that in Romanian sign language, the sign for Christmas is a gesture indicating choking, symbolizing the sacrifice of the pig. Traditional dances and games also play a crucial role during this festive time. These dances and games not only entertain but also strengthen community bonds and preserve cultural heritage.

Music and Carols

The festive atmosphere is further enhanced by the traditional music of Romania, especially during the Christmas season. Colinda, a unique genre of music in Romania, is closely associated with Christmas carols but features lyrics that are more traditional and distinctly Christian. Colinda singers, known as colindators, travel from house to house, singing and performing to bring good luck and joy to families. Music is an essential part of Christmas celebrations, creating a joyful and serene atmosphere around households.

Modern Celebrations and Work Culture

In contemporary Romania, Christmas and its surrounding festivities are celebrated with enthusiasm. Many businesses provide employees with a paid two-day holiday, allowing them to indulge in festivities and enjoy time with their families. While the holiday season is marked by joy and togetherness, it's also part of a larger cultural setting where communities come together to share in the spirit of the season.

Reference to Historical Context

Let's take a moment to step back and examine why Christmas is so important in Romania. Unlike some European countries where Christmas celebration might be less emphasized, Romania treats this holiday with significant reverence. This is partly due to the historical and religious significance of Christianity in the region. The cultural and religious elements of Christmas are intertwined, making it a deeply personal and communal event.