Christmas and New Year’s Festivities in My Family
In my family, the Christmas holidays and New Year’s celebrations span almost three weeks. It’s a special time for us as we blend French and Russian traditions, making the season especially memorable.
Celebrating Christmas with French Family
On December 24th and 25th, we celebrate Christmas with our French relatives. It’s a time for us to come together and enjoy the company of loved ones. Our French Christmas traditions include a festive dinner, exchange of gifts, and gathering around the beautifully decorated Christmas tree.
Russian New Year’s Festivities
After celebrating Christmas with our French family, we embark on what we call “Russian holidays.” This is when we fully embrace Russian traditions, including the New Year’s celebrations. In Russia, New Year’s is one of the most beloved holidays, and we make sure to continue the festivities in our own home.
A Blend of Traditions
What makes our holiday season truly unique is the blending of French and Russian traditions under one roof. It’s a beautiful sight to see a French Santa Claus (or Père Noël) sitting next to a vintage Russian Ded Moroz (Grandfather Frost) under our Christmas tree. These cultural elements coexist harmoniously, and they have become a cherished part of our family’s traditions.
Creating Lasting Memories
The holiday season is a time for creating lasting memories with family, and we ensure that our celebrations reflect the rich tapestry of our cultural backgrounds. From baking traditional French Christmas treats to preparing Russian New Year’s dishes, every moment of our festive period is filled with love, laughter, and appreciation for our diverse heritage.
Our Unique Holiday Traditions
One of the highlights of our holiday season is the blending of unique traditions from France and Russia. Here are some of the activities and customs that make our celebrations truly special:
– Exchanging gifts on Christmas Eve with our French relatives and continuing the tradition with a Russian-style gift exchange on New Year’s Eve.
– Indulging in a variety of traditional French and Russian dishes, from foie gras and bûche de Noël to Olivier salad and blini.
– Decorating our home with a mix of French and Russian ornaments, such as handcrafted French santons and intricately painted Russian nesting dolls.
– Singing carols in both French and Russian, creating a beautiful fusion of melodies that honor our respective heritages.
Embracing Diversity
Our family’s holiday season is a testament to the beauty of diversity and the richness it brings to our lives. By blending French and Russian traditions, we not only pay homage to our heritage but also create a unique experience that is filled with warmth, joy, and cultural appreciation.
Conclusion
As we celebrate Christmas and New Year’s, our family finds joy in embracing the traditions of both France and Russia. By coming together and weaving a tapestry of cultural elements, we create a holiday season that is full of love, laughter, and cherished memories.
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