Silvest

Silvest is a traditional Slavic and Eastern Orthodox celebration marking the transition from the old year to the new, primarily observed on December 31 and January 1. The name derives from the Latin *Silvester*, honoring Pope Sylvester I, whose feast day falls on December 31. In many Slavic cultures, particularly in Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus, Silvest is celebrated with unique customs and rituals that blend pagan and Christian influences.

The evening before Silvest, known as *Vykuvannia* (Ukrainian) or *Kutia* (Russian), families gather for a festive meal. A central dish is *kutia*, a sweet porridge made from wheat, poppy seeds, honey, and nuts, symbolizing prosperity and remembrance of the dead. Another key tradition involves jumping over a fire (*skok through fire*), believed to purify and bring good luck for the coming year. Some also place a sprig of pine or fir on the doorstep to ward off evil spirits.

In Orthodox Christian communities, Silvest is often linked to the *Holy Supper* (*Sviata Vecheria*), a meal eaten before midnight mass. The celebration culminates with the ringing of church bells at midnight, signaling the arrival of the new year. Fireworks and toasts with sparkling wine are common in urban areas, though many retain older customs like wearing red underwear for health or hanging straw on doors for fertility.

Regional variations exist; in some areas, people leave food outside for spirits or ancestors, while others perform rituals with water or bread to ensure abundance. Despite modernization, Silvest remains a time of reflection, community, and the hope for renewal, blending religious devotion with folk traditions.