More subtle: At home, the omnipresent & elaborate reminders of the season visible right after Halloween, (in theory) should spark us all into action early. However, here even the most over-the-top holiday displays are, by comparison, subtle.
In that spirit, I tried to convince the kids that these cute decorative trees could serve as our Christmas tree this year (rookie move - YES we now have a 'real tree' too!)
Anyhow, turns out the store with THE MOST elaborate holiday displays is a Home Depot like place - called Epicenter. From the outside only the small tree gives any indication of the season
Inside, they do go to almost US levels of holiday festivity.....
They are trying to sell holiday decor after all.....
Stick your head in a Scottish man cut out? Nothing says Merry Christmas like that!
Late timeline & no gifts for Christmas: Given most people here are Orthodox, they celebrate Christmas on January 6-7. However, that is considered a religious holiday only and does not include gifts. (Incidentally, while under Soviet rule, people were not allowed to celebrate Christmas since they were under 'severe religious repression' and apparently it was best to present yourself as atheist)
But don't worry, they do go all out for New Years, which includes a visit from Father Frost & the Snow Princess - who come bearing gifts. An example from Quincy's class party.....(Father Frost should look a little familiar!)
Post Soviet rule, some of the new generation have started to celebrate a St. Nicholas Day on December 19th. It doesn't seem that widespread & has been described to me as a 'made up holiday', but does include more gifts - so our kids have declared it worthy of recognition.
So, just remember, if your holiday card arrives by the 7th of January, we are totally on time!
Hope you are enjoying the scramble of the season!
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