International students of Mariupol State University learned about Christmas celebrations in Ukraine

The adaptation and integration of foreigners into the Ukrainian environment are essential aspects of the university's activities. On December 6, the Center for International Education organized an event called "Christmas in Ukraine," fostering an informal atmosphere with both international and Ukrainian students participating.

The event provided insights into Ukrainian culture, exploring customs and traditions associated with Christmas, such as caroling, kutya, nativity scenes, generous songs, and didukh – significant symbols of the holiday reflecting the uniqueness of the Ukrainian people.

The event also enlightened foreign students about the shift in holiday celebrations due to the transition to the New Julian Calendar. The chosen date coincided with the day Ukrainians traditionally welcomed Saint Nicholas for the first time. Attendees received Christmas gingerbread cookies as gifts, which they were encouraged to decorate.

A student from Cameroon, Nissak Buteka Mutifen Eric, expressed curiosity about Ukrainian celebration traditions:

I was interested in learning about the traditions of Ukrainian celebrations. For example, on Christmas Eve, before Christmas, they bring cooked wheat with honey and poppy seeds. These ingredients in the festive dish have symbolic meaning. I also gained a new experience. Before this, I had never decorated gingerbread cookies – this is not something present in my country's culture.