Students of Smolyan Secondary School staged a theatrical performance "Christmas Carols"
January 14 — Old New Year.
This additional holiday arose as a result of the change in the calendar system. Due to this discrepancy in calendars, a number of countries celebrate two "New Years" — according to the old and new styles.
The main winter holiday for our ancestors was Kolyady. After the 1917 revolution and the refusal of the Orthodox Church to adopt the Gregorian calendar, Orthodox Kolyady transformed into a joyful game during the Svjatki – this is the period from Christmas Eve, January 6, to the Baptism of the Lord, January 19.
Kolyady singers dressed in masquerade costumes and went from house to house of their fellow villagers with songs and greetings. The masked performers praised the hosts, wished prosperity to the home and family, and in return demanded gifts, jokingly predicting ruin for stingy homeowners.
Svjatki lasts for 12-14 days, each of which has specific rules of conduct. There was a whole list prohibiting any physical work. However, in some regions, January 14 was considered necessary to start some work to ensure it would be successful throughout the year.
Gradually, the Kolyady holiday began to be revived in one form or another throughout Belarus. For example, in the Orsha district, teachers and students of the Smol'yanskaya secondary school prepared and held a theatrical performance "Christmas Kolyadki." The residents of the agrotown joyfully welcomed the Kolyady singers and treated them to sweets. Traditionally, the Goat wished for a rich harvest, good health, and happiness in the new 2025 year.
Photos provided by the Smol'yanskaya secondary school.