You often mention the phrase "Ukrainian Christmas." What is the difference?

January is typically the month of festive holidays in Ukraine, rather than December in the U.S. Although December 19 is St. Nicholas Day, when children find some treat under their pillow, it is not a vacation day for schoolchildren. The New Year holiday most closely resembles the American Christmas holiday, with people putting up New Year trees and exchanging gifts. Christmas is a week later on January 7 and is much more a religious observance and marked with church services and elaborate meals with family.