What Is the Sixth Day of the New Year?
The Sixth Day of the New Year, observed on 6th January, marks a significant point within Russia’s extensive winter holiday period. It is a public holiday in the Russian Federation, contributing to a prolonged break that commences with New Year’s Day. This day is notable for its proximity to Orthodox Christmas Eve, which falls on the same date.
The period from 1st January to 7th January is generally recognised as the “New Year holidays” in Russia. During this time, many businesses, schools, and government offices are closed, allowing people to rest and engage in festive activities. The Sixth Day of the New Year facilitates preparations for Orthodox Christmas, an important religious and cultural observance.
History and Origins of the Sixth Day of the New Year
The tradition of extended winter holidays in Russia has evolved over time, particularly after the collapse of the Soviet Union. During the Soviet era, religious holidays were largely discouraged, and New Year’s Day became the primary winter celebration. However, following the shift in political landscape, Orthodox Christmas (7th January) regained its prominence.
To accommodate both the secular New Year’s celebration and the Orthodox Christmas, a longer public holiday period was established. The Sixth Day of the New Year, 6th January, thus became an integral part of this consolidated festive season. Its designation as a public holiday acknowledges its role as the eve of Orthodox Christmas, allowing for national participation in associated traditions.
How the Sixth Day of the New Year Is Celebrated
In Russia, the Sixth Day of the New Year is primarily observed as Orthodox Christmas Eve. While not a day for major public festivities, it is characterised by preparation and anticipation. Families often gather, clean their homes, and prepare traditional meals for the upcoming Christmas feast.
Observant Orthodox Christians attend special church services on the evening of 6th January. These services mark the culmination of the Nativity Fast, a period of abstention leading up to Christmas. Many families adhere to a strict fast on Christmas Eve, often not eating until the first star appears in the evening sky, symbolising the Star of Bethlehem. After this, a meat-free meal, known as Sochevnik, is traditionally consumed.
When Is the Sixth Day of the New Year?
The Sixth Day of the New Year is observed annually on 6th January. This date is fixed according to the Gregorian calendar, which is the civil calendar used in Russia. The Russian Orthodox Church, however, continues to use the Julian calendar for its religious observances.
Because the Julian calendar is currently 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar, 25th December on the Julian calendar corresponds to 7th January on the Gregorian calendar. Therefore, Orthodox Christmas Eve (24th December Julian) falls on 6th January (Gregorian). This consistent alignment makes the Sixth Day of the New Year a predictable fixture in the Russian holiday schedule.
Sixth Day of the New Year Key Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Public Holiday |
| Date | 6th January (fixed) |
| Countries | 1 country (Russian Federation) |
| Also known as | Orthodox Christmas Eve |
| Calendar system | Gregorian (for civil holiday); Julian (for Orthodox Church observance) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sixth Day of the New Year a public holiday in Russia?
Yes, 6th January is part of the official public holiday period in Russia, which typically extends from New Year's Day (1st January) through to Orthodox Christmas (7th January).
How is the Sixth Day of the New Year related to Orthodox Christmas?
The Sixth Day of the New Year falls on 6th January, which is Orthodox Christmas Eve. It is a day of preparation for Orthodox Christmas Day, which is celebrated on 7th January according to the Julian calendar.
What are the "New Year holidays" in Russia?
In Russia, the "New Year holidays" refer to an extended period of public holidays encompassing New Year's Day (1st January) and Orthodox Christmas (7th January). This period allows for significant national rest and celebration.