Christmas in Romania: Embracing Traditions, Flavors, and Festive Spirit

Have you ever wondered how they spend their Christmas holiday in Romania? If you are an international traveller choosing Romania as your Christmas destination, you might find there are customs and traditions you don’t fully understand. Or you might be invited to a Christmas festive dinner and wonder what those delicious meals are.

Romania, nestled in the heart of Europe, unveils a captivating tapestry of Christmas traditions, a blend of ancient customs and modern celebrations that captivate the hearts and palates of visitors. From the enchanting carols that fill the air to the incredible aromas of traditional dishes, Christmas in Romania is an immersive experience that enchants you.

Preparation and Fasting: Setting the Stage for Christmas

In Romania, most of the population is Christian, orthodox or catholic. This means that Romanians usually take religious celebrations seriously.

The Christmas celebrations in Romania commence with the 40-day fasting period known as ‘Postul Crăciunului,’ which begins on November 14th. During this time, Romanians abstain from meat, eggs, and dairy products, emphasizing the holiday’s spiritual significance. This period of abstinence not only cleanses the body but also prepares the mind and soul for the upcoming festivities.

As the fasting period concludes, Romanians will indulge in an abudnant feast and enjoy Christmas to its fullest.

Anticipation and Christmas Eve: The Festive Vigil

Christmas Eve, known as ‘Noaptea de Ajun’ in Romania, is a time for family gatherings, traditional carols, and the culmination of Christmas preparations. Families traditionally gather around the table, adorned with many homemade delicacies, including sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), piftie (jellied pork or chicken) or cozonac (sweet bread with walnuts, Turkish delight and other delicious ingredients).

During Christmas Eve dinner, children eagerly await the arrival of the ‘Colindetători’, groups of carolers who traditionally visit homes, singing traditional Christmas songs and receiving small gifts.

The lively caroling adds to the festive atmosphere and strengthens the bonds of the community.

The Festive Day: Christmas Day and Beyond

Romanians attend church services on Christmas Day, seeking blessings and spiritual guidance. The day is spent in family gatherings, exchanging gifts, and enjoying the company of loved ones. The Christmas table remains laden with delicacies, and the spirit of joy and camaraderie permeates the air.

The Christmas celebrations continue throughout the week, marked by traditional games, caroling, and gatherings. Children and adults participate in the lively festivities, creating lasting memories and embracing the spirit of Christmas.

Delicious Delights: A Culinary Journey Through Christmas Traditions

The culinary traditions of Romanian Christmas are a symphony of flavors and aromas, tantalizing the senses and transporting visitors to a world of festive indulgence. Here are some of the must-try dishes described by our partner platform promoting Bucharest.

SARMALE CU MĂMĂLIGĂ (Mince Rolled In Pickle Cabbage With Polenta)

You will find SARMALE in every traditional restaurant you enter. They are a culinary preparation of minced meat (usually pork, beef, sheep, poultry, or even fish), mixed with rice and other ingredients, wrapped in rolled cabbage leaves. They are usually served with polenta and cream. To be tasty, the SARMALES are boiled in a cast-iron cauldron or a clay pot over low heat. It is considered that if consumed after „staying” 2-3 days, they will have a unique flavor.

POMANA PORCULUI (Pork Feast)

POMANA PORCULUI (Pork Feast) is an ancient custom. This is the Thanksgiving table for the help received in slaughtering the pig from relatives, neighbors, or friends and is offered after the work is completed by the host. Pork Feast is obtained by frying pieces of meat (muscle, liver, bacon, ribs, jaw, representing all parts of the slaughtered animal) in fat. Serve with polenta and a glass of wine. An honorable meal!

PLĂCINTA (Romanian Pie)

The pies are a pastry product with an old tradition in Romania. Romanians eat cheese, raisin pie, apple pie, cabbage pie, and meat pie, and the list can continue. Although they differ from country to country, pies are desserts made of dough, which hides a sweet or salty filling.

Regardless of your filling, PLĂCINTA (Romanian pie) is a delight. You can find them in any traditional restaurant or pastry shops where you will meet them almost everywhere. Eaten hot Romanian pies will brighten your day!

COZONAC (Romanian Easter & Christmas Sweet Bread)

The favorite dessert of the Romanians, the COZONAC, has a long history. Cozonac’s origin is bread, and leavening and baking techniques have evolved. 

Romanian tradition says that if you have a COZONAC on the table, you are celebrating. This is how, during the holidays, Romanian housewives start kneading the Cozonac dough. Whether filled with walnuts and cocoa or Turkish delights, the Romanian COZONAC is a must-have dessert for Christmas or Easter. 

Christmas in Romania is a captivating blend of ancient customs, modern celebrations, and tantalizing flavors. From the enchanting carols to the bountiful tables, the spirit of Christmas is infectious, drawing visitors into the heart of Romanian traditions. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, savor the culinary delights, and experience the heartwarming hospitality of the Romanian people.

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