Orthodox Christmas
2028Friday, January 7
Quick Facts
- Date
- Friday, January 7, 2028
- Observed in
- Georgia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Russia +1 more
- Type
- Religious Holiday
What is Orthodox Christmas?
Orthodox Christmas is celebrated on January 7th in countries following the Julian calendar for religious observances. This includes Serbia, Montenegro, Russia, Ukraine (traditionally), North Macedonia, Georgia, Ethiopia, and other Orthodox Christian nations. The date corresponds to December 25th on the Julian calendar, which is 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar used for civil purposes.
When is Orthodox Christmas 2028?
Orthodox Christmas is on Friday, January 7 in 2028. Check the dates and days for other years in the table below.
History & Origin
The difference in Christmas dates stems from the calendar reform of 1582. When Pope Gregory XIII introduced the Gregorian calendar to correct astronomical drift, many Orthodox churches continued using the Julian calendar for liturgical purposes.
The birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, as described in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, is celebrated by Christians worldwide, though on different dates. The Orthodox tradition emphasizes the theological significance of the Incarnation – God becoming human in the person of Jesus.
Some Orthodox churches, including the Greek, Romanian, and Bulgarian churches, adopted the Revised Julian Calendar in 1923, aligning their Christmas with December 25th. However, Serbian, Russian, Georgian, and other churches maintain the traditional Julian date.
How It's Celebrated
Orthodox Christmas traditions vary by country but share common elements. In Serbia, the celebration begins with Badnje veče (Christmas Eve), when the badnjak (yule log, usually oak) is ceremonially burned. Families gather for a meatless dinner, as the Advent fast continues until Christmas Day.
On Christmas morning, the položajnik (first-footer) visits homes bringing good luck. The festive meal features česnica (Christmas bread with a coin inside), roast pork, and sarma. Whoever finds the coin will have good fortune.
In Russia, Christmas Eve dinner includes 12 dishes representing the apostles. The meal begins when the first star appears. Kutya (wheat berry pudding) is the central dish. Children await Ded Moroz (Grandfather Frost) and his granddaughter Snegurochka.
Churches hold midnight liturgies, and caroling (koleda) is practiced throughout Orthodox countries.
Where It's Observed
Orthodox Christmas is a public holiday in 6 countries. In 2028, it falls on Friday, January 7.
🇬🇪Georgia(შობა (Shoba))Public Holiday
🇲🇪Montenegro(Božić / Божић)Public Holiday🇲🇰North Macedonia(Божиќ)Public Holiday🇷🇸Serbia(Božić / Божић)Public Holiday🇷🇺Russia(Рождество Христово)Public Holiday
🇺🇦Ukraine(Різдво Христове)Public Holiday
Fun Facts
- Orthodox Christmas falls 13 days after Western Christmas due to the 13-day difference between Julian and Gregorian calendars
- In Serbia, the burning of the badnjak (yule log) on Christmas Eve is a tradition dating back to pre-Christian times
- The Serbian Orthodox Christmas greeting is "Hristos se rodi" (Christ is born), answered by "Vaistinu se rodi" (Indeed He is born)
- Ethiopia celebrates Orthodox Christmas (Genna) on January 7th with unique traditions including the game of genna, similar to field hockey
- In Russia, Christmas was banned during the Soviet era (1929-1991), but New Year celebrations absorbed many Christmas traditions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas on January 7?
January 7th corresponds to December 25th on the Julian calendar, which many Orthodox churches still use for religious observances. The 13-day difference results from the Gregorian calendar reform of 1582.
Do all Orthodox Christians celebrate on January 7?
No. Greek, Romanian, Bulgarian, and some other Orthodox churches adopted calendar reforms and celebrate Christmas on December 25th like Western Christians.
Is Orthodox Christmas a public holiday?
Yes, in countries like Serbia, Montenegro, Russia, Ukraine, North Macedonia, Georgia, and others with significant Orthodox populations.
What is the badnjak tradition?
The badnjak is an oak branch or log ceremonially brought into Serbian homes and burned on Christmas Eve. It symbolizes the wood that warmed the stable where Jesus was born.
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