Romanian 101- Romanian Language Lessons - part 5

Celebrating Christmas in Romania

 

Christmas in Romania, or Crăciun, is a festive time filled with warmth, tradition, and joy. One of the most cherished activities is colindatul (caroling), where groups go door-to-door singing traditional songs like O, ce veste minunată (Oh, What Wonderful News - https://youtu.be/AMeGVJ1L2ks?si=NNBfopJUAkNq-2dm). If you’re invited to join, say Colindăm? (Shall we carol?) and get ready to spread some holiday cheer!

Romanian Christmas meals are a culinary delight. Families gather to share dishes like sarmale (cabbage rolls stuffed with meat and rice) and piftie (aspic with meat), finishing with cozonac (a sweet bread filled with nuts or cocoa). Don’t be shy and try vin fiert (mulled wine), perfect for warming up in the winter!

The spiritual side of Christmas is deeply rooted in Romanian culture. On the day of Ajun de Crăciun (Christmas Eve), many people attend slujba de Crăciun (Christmas service) la biserică (at the church), where carols and prayers celebrate the birth of Jesus. Even if you’re not religious, visiting a Romanian church during the holidays is a unique experience, offering a glimpse into the traditions and values that make Christmas here so special.

Romanians also celebrate with unique traditions such as Steaua (The Star), where children carry a star-shaped decoration and sing carols about the birth of Jesus. You might also encounter Plugușorul, a New Year’s tradition where people recite poems for good fortune while jingling bells.

Crăciun fericit! Merry Christmas!

 

Author: Alexandra Lupșan