January 14 - the old New Year: customs and traditions of the holiday, folk omens
After the New Year holidays, Russians are waiting for one more important day - the Old New Year. The celebration allows you to prolong the New Year mood and the feeling of a winter fairy tale, once again immersing yourself in the atmosphere of the most anticipated holiday of the year. Every year, the celebrations take place on the night of January 14. In 2025, this date falls on Tuesday. About how to properly celebrate the old New Year and what traditions are associated with it, tell "Izvestia".
How the Old New Year appeared and why it is celebrated on January 14
The holiday appeared in connection with the change of chronology, which occurred in our country in 1918. Since that time, the Gregorian calendar came into use, which replaced the Julian calendar. However, the Orthodox Church still adhered to the old style. Because of this there was a difference in dates, and the New Year had a "double", which soon became a separate celebration.
For many years, the old New Year is celebrated on January 14. It is celebrated not only in Russia, but also in many former Soviet republics - Belarus, Armenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan. In addition, celebrations are held in Serbia, Greece, Montenegro, Algeria, Tunisia and a number of other foreign countries.
In some countries, festive events are held with great fanfare, attracting many tourists from all over the world. More often, the Old New Year is celebrated in the family circle. On the occasion of the holiday set tables and give each other small gifts or souvenirs.
Traditions and customs of the old New Year
Since the celebration coincides with the day of the memory of St. Basil the Great, considered in Russia the patron saint of pig breeders, the main treat in the villages was a roasted piglet. On St. Basil's Day, housewives tried to prepare as many other pork dishes as possible. On the table also put kutya, pies and dumplings with surprises.
The rich feast was accompanied by songs, various rites and rituals to attract prosperity and a good harvest in the new year. In addition, on this day it was customary to go visiting and caroling. And in the evenings they organized fortune-telling to find out their fate.
Some of the traditions have survived to this day. In general, the holiday serves as another reason to gather the family, make a wish and pay attention to those who did not have time to congratulate in the New Year. Believers are especially looking forward to the holiday, because by this time the long Christmas fast is over and any dishes can be eaten.
It is customary to meet the old New Year in clean and neat clothes. At the table you can not swear, swear and meet the celebration alone. According to folk beliefs, this promises discord in the family. Cleaning the house is recommended to do in advance, so that together with the garbage is not "sweep away" good luck. In everything it is important to follow the famous saying: "How you meet (old) New Year, so it and spend it".
Folk omens for January 14, 2025
According to the omens of the day since ancient times determine what weather will be established in the coming days. Strong wind promises a cold snap, morning fog - thaw, and clear sunny weather - severe frost.
Another omen says that if it snows in the morning, the snow cover will last until the end of winter, and spring will come late. Ice on the roads on January 14 is a harbinger of a warm summer and a good harvest.
Earlier "Izvestia" published vintage postcards with the old New Year, which can be shared on the holiday.
