THE TRAVEL BLOG OF BALTIC TOURS

Kūčios is one of the most important traditional celebrations in Lithuania. It is celebrated on December 24th, the evening before Christmas. Kūčios is a special occasion that brings families together, from preparation to celebration. Its night is rich in symbolism and reflection.

Preparation

One of the most important things is cleanliness. It is essential before Christmas Eve dinner to clean the house, heat and bathe in a sauna, dress in clean clothes, and detox your body by fasting. Festive meals begin only after the Evening star appears in the sky. It is also important to make peace with family members.

Traditional Food

During Christmas Eve, it‘s a tradition to prepare 12 meals - they symbolize the 12 months of the year, and they are strictly meatless. The table is covered with hay under the tablecloth.  

The evening meal begins with sharing „kalėdaitis“ — a thin, tasteless wafer symbolizing unity and forgiveness. All dishes are simple and plant-based, including herring or other fish. Poppy seed milk, cranberry kissel, mushrooms, traditional small pastries kūčiukai, peas, beets, and wheat with honey are often served.

During the Christmas Eve dinner, one should taste at least a bite of each dish. The number of place settings is arranged depending on family members, but one spot is always left empty to honor the memory of loved ones who have passed. It is believed that they are coming to celebrate together.

Christmas Eve Magic

A significant part of Kūčios is fortune-telling. It is believed that on Christmas Eve, the boundaries between the natural and spiritual worlds blur. Popular spells include predicting future lovers, weather, health, and harvest. During the dinner, family members pull one straw of hay from under the tablecloth and see whose straw is the longest, which means that he will live the longest. It is also believed that animals could speak with human voices during this night, but you can‘t try to hear them because it would bring you misfortune.

Religion

After the dinner, many people attend midnight mass in churches to celebrate the religious significance of the night. Christmas Eve in Lithuania is not only a cultural tradition but also a time to strengthen religious faith and honor Christian values.

The night of Kūčios is considered magical, filled with peace and reflection. It is believed that wishes made on this special night come true. This is not only a time for family gatherings but also a moment for spiritual cleansing, emphasizing respect for traditions and a sense of closeness.