Old New Year in Belarus!

Old New Year in Belarus!

Old New Year in Belarus!

From 13 to 14 January traditionally meet Old New Year. Ceremony is held in the Christmas Eve (Christmas Carols).

Change into costume animals or fantastic creatures and become a member of the ancient tradition. From small to large in suits come in every house and sing carols, for which their owners are treated to sweets. Almost in every belarusian village, town can see traditional action in all it's glory .

Thus, one of the most unique ceremonies in Belarus is the ritual of «Kolyadnye Kings» (Kapyl district, Semezhava village), which is listed as the world's intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. In the XVIII century, when the village Semezhava were been part of the king's army, the New Year according to the Julian calendar, officers and soldiers went from court to court and showed the whole presentation in exchange for a treat. After detachment left the local population to maintain and develop a similar rite of Christmas. There is a belief: what house visited «kings», and there will be peace and harmony. Already since 1996, this annual ceremony is held in the village Semezhava which involved young «kings». An event is a costume carnival where in every home is played historical and religious drama «King Maximilian».

Venue: Minsk region, Kapyl district, village Semezhava.

Time: 13 to 14 January 2014.