Koliada

Koliada is a traditional Slavic winter celebration that marks the end of the year and the arrival of the new year, typically associated with Christmas and New Year festivities. Originating from ancient pagan customs, it involves community singing, caroling, and rituals meant to welcome prosperity, health, and good fortune. Participants often go from house to house, singing special songs called koliady, and sometimes performing symbolic acts like blessing homes or livestock. The celebration emphasizes communal bonding, gratitude, and hope for the year ahead, combining elements of folk mythology with religious traditions depending on regional practices.