Ukraine develops guide with traditional winter holiday scenarios

The Zagoriy Foundation has published the third installment in its Vytoky series, focusing on Ukrainian winter holidays and customs. The guide, titled Vytoky. Winter Cycle, is designed to help integrate authentic Ukrainian traditions into corporate culture.

This was announced by representatives of the organization.

What is the problem?

"Today, we celebrate Christmas with the whole world while also reviving our authentic traditions. It is important to understand how to celebrate the New Year in a uniquely Ukrainian way, as these customs connect us to our culture and provide strength during challenging times," said Kateryna Zagoriy, co-founder of the Zagoriy Foundation.

What is the solution?

"We genuinely believe that exploring our past allows us to discover elements that resonate with the present. This inspires collaborative projects that strengthen our sense of community. We are not advocating for a change in the format of family holidays but encouraging people to explore these traditions through the lens of our Ukrainian identity," said Oksana Lykhozhon, Marketing Director of the Zagoriy Foundation.

How does it work?

The guide is structured into three main sections:

1. Essays: Contributions from scholars on traditional winter holidays, exploring their historical context and cultural significance.
2. Celebration Scenarios: Practical ideas for celebrating in office settings or at home, incorporating traditional Ukrainian customs.
3. Practical Recommendations: A curated list of companies, locations, and specialists to help organize master classes or purchase authentic holiday products.

The guide was developed in collaboration with leading ethnographers, historians, and folklorists to revive and popularize Ukrainian traditions. It also included contributions from members of the Kyiv Creative Society initiative Koza-Malanka and the YouTube channel Porobleno. This multidisciplinary team ensured the content combines deep cultural knowledge with an accessible and inspiring presentation.

The guide is designed to support companies looking to integrate Ukrainian culture into their corporate environment, while also appealing to anyone interested in learning more about winter traditions.

It offers ideas for celebrations that can become cherished family or corporate traditions, capturing the authentic spirit of Ukrainian culture.

Vytoky. Winter Cycle is available for free download on the official project website, serving as a practical resource for those wishing to deepen their understanding of Ukrainian winter customs and incorporate them into everyday life.

In Kyiv, the Museum of History has opened an exhibition project titled Christmas City. Kyiv 19th–20th Centuries. The exhibition is organized into thematic blocks, showcasing how Kyiv residents prepared for the winter holidays during this period.

Additionally, on November 15, the charitable foundation Tvoya Opera launched its annual campaign, 2,000 Gifts for the New Year. This initiative allows individuals to fulfill the wishes of specific children who are unable to hug their father or mother during the holidays.

Even in the darkest times, miracles are possible. Rubryka has compiled a list of ways you can bring joy to others. Learn more in the feature, Saving the spirit of Christmas: What Ukrainian charity campaigns you should support these holidays