Christmas - Nicest holidays of the year

Christmas are holidays of peace, abundance, rich in traditions and covered with mystery. Our Slavic predecessors celebrated the Midwinter. Christianity fulfilled these holidays with the deeper meaning expressed by their biblical message.
  Christians celebrate Christmas as a birthday of Jesus in Bethlehem since 13th century. Families are preparing for Christmas several weeks ahead. They tidy their households, bake cakes, and prepare Christmas decorations. The period of Christmas preparations coincides with Advent.
  Beautiful old customs are related to the names of Saint Nicholas and Saint Lucy.
Years ago, when there was not enough room in people’s cottages, the Christmas tree was hanged on the timber and decorated with apples, nuts and straw decorations. A straw or wooden Christmas crib was put under the tree.
On the Christmas Eve after the whole day of religious fast, the whole family was seated behind the table. On most tables following items could be found:

• A burning candle - its light helping to find the way;
• thin wafers – common dish of all Christians;
• honey, nuts and apples – gifts of nature, securing health for the family;
• garlic, onion – as a protection against evil;
• fish scales – supposed to bring money and good luck for the family;
• A piece of bread and a glass of water - everyday gifts necessary for life.

After the dinner the father of the family cut an apple. If it was healthy, a peaceful year could be expected in the family. Everybody received a piece of apple so as he/she could find the way home during the year. Christmas dinner was abundant. All products produced throughout the year were put on the table. Lentil or cabbage soup, poppy-seed pasta, cakes and other regional dishes were served. Later on, fish was included into the Christmas Eve menu and became the most common Christmas dish.
Some of the dishes were put aside for carolers. Husband-men took a piece from each dish and gave it to domestic animals.
Christmas Eve was supplemented by visits of carolers singing carols, wishing health and happiness. In the air of Christmas comfort children’s eyes sparkled with expectations of Christmas presents.