Traditions

Christmas Eve Dinner

Every December 24th, the Subbotin family gathers for a traditional Christmas Eve dinner. We prepare 12 meatless dishes, each symbolizing one of the twelve apostles. The evening begins with the first star appearing in the sky — a sign to start the feast.

• Borscht — a rich beet soup with mushrooms
• Pierogi — dumplings filled with cabbage and potato
• Kutia — a sweet grain pudding with honey and poppy seeds
• Dried fruit compote — a traditional festive drink

Easter Basket Blessing

On Holy Saturday, we prepare a basket filled with traditional Easter foods and bring it to church for blessing. This tradition has been passed down from our grandparents and remains one of the most cherished moments of the year.

• Paska — a rich, sweet Easter bread
• Pysanky — intricately decorated eggs
• Ham and sausages — prepared from family recipes
• Horseradish and salt — symbolizing the bitterness and preservation of life

Sunday Family Stories

Every Sunday afternoon, we gather around the table to share stories from the past week and memories from our family history. The elders recount tales of our ancestors, keeping their legacy alive for the younger generations.

• Each person shares one highlight of their week
• A story from a grandparent or older relative
• Reading from our family history book
• Tea with homemade pastries

First Day of Spring Walk

On the first day of spring, the Subbotin family takes a long walk together — a symbol of new beginnings and renewal. We visit the places where our ancestors lived and share memories of past springs.

• Walk to a local park or nature reserve
• Picnic with traditional spring snacks
• Each family member plants a flower or a tree
• Toast to the new season

Family Recipe

Passed down from generation to generation, this is the Subbotin family's signature dessert — Grandma's Honey Cake.