As Christmas approaches, many Ukrainians living in the UK are striving to preserve their traditional festive customs, despite the ongoing war in their homeland. Stories of resilience and hope emerge as they reflect on past celebrations and adapt to their new realities.
Mariia Kushch fled Ukraine three years ago, shortly after the full-scale Russian invasion began on February 24, 2022. She recalls the harrowing moment when she woke to an explosion that marked the start of a profound upheaval in her life. “I grabbed my son, just seven years old at the time, and we went to the basement of our building,” she said, describing the fear that gripped her as she witnessed the chaos unfolding outside her window.
Since then, Mariia has settled in Hertfordshire, where she continues to mourn the loss of her previous life. According to UN statistics, around 53,006 Ukrainian civilians have been reported as casualties, including 14,534 deaths, since the war began. “We have uprooted everything we knew: a new country, a new language, new schools for my son,” she explained. “I miss Ukraine every day. It breaks my heart that I cannot return.”
Despite the challenges, Mariia cherishes her Ukrainian Christmas traditions, particularly the celebration of St Nicholas Day on December 6. “Children fall asleep with hopes that St Nicholas will leave a present under their pillow,” she said with a hint of nostalgia. She also looks forward to Orthodox Christmas on January 7, when many Ukrainians participate in a ceremonial dip in freezing waters to mark the baptism of Jesus.
Another Ukrainian living in London, Karyna, expressed similar sentiments about the holiday season. Originally from Kyiv, she experienced the turmoil of the invasion firsthand. “At first, there was confusion and disbelief, and then the realization that the invasion had truly begun,” she recalled. Karyna plans to celebrate Christmas with friends by preparing the traditional Sviata Vecheria dinner, which consists of twelve dishes symbolizing the apostles.
“I remember the table being covered with straw under a white cloth, symbolizing the manger,” Karyna said. “We shared kutia, a sweet wheat and honey dish, wishing each other health and prosperity.” Her memories of singing traditional Christmas carols, or kolyadky, evoke a sense of community and joy that she hopes to recreate in her new surroundings.
For many, the festive season serves as a reminder of the warmth and togetherness inherent in Ukrainian culture. “One thing that stays with me is the warmth and togetherness of Ukrainian family traditions,” Karyna reflected. She remains hopeful for Ukraine’s future, stating that the resilience and unity of her people give her confidence that the nation will endure and thrive.
In the spirit of giving, local initiatives have emerged to support those still in Ukraine. Fynn Watt and Jacob Simpson, co-founders of the charity Driving Ukraine, coordinate convoys to deliver essential vehicles to the Ukrainian military. Their recent December convoy marked the 52nd of its kind, featuring volunteers adorned in Christmas attire as they transported life-saving equipment.
“Each vehicle we deliver is crucial,” Jacob noted. The charity has successfully delivered over 270 vehicles and raised more than £1.7 million to support the war effort. As part of their mission, volunteers also bring humanitarian aid, including medical supplies and Christmas gifts, to those in need.
Another organization, Ukraine Relief, has also been instrumental in providing support. Founder Karol Swiacki shared that they have delivered 56 ambulances this year alone, alongside vital medical supplies. “The people in Ukraine are fighting for freedom because of their families,” he explained. Karol noted that many families are separated, with loved ones on the front lines, creating a somber atmosphere during what is typically a joyous time of year.
“It’s a very painful process,” he said. “When you’re there, sitting around these people, there is no electricity, there is no heating, and there is no hope. We came from the UK with that hope to tell these people that we haven’t forgotten about them.”
As Ukrainians celebrate Christmas in the UK, they hold onto their traditions, finding comfort in shared experiences and memories of home. Each carol sung and every meal prepared serves as a testament to their enduring spirit, even as they navigate the complexities of life in a foreign land.
