Religious holidays are especially important in countries with a prevailingly dominant religion. Most SRAS countries fit this description: Russia and Ukraine are 71% and 67% Orthodox, respectively; Kyrgyzstan is 83% Muslim; and Poland is an astonishing 93% Catholic. Religious holidays, therefore, are often recognized by the state and given as days off and they play a large role in defining the country’s calendar and identity. In most countries in Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia, these holidays are observed as purely religious. Santa Claus figures are largely relegated to holidays other than Christmas and the Easter Bunny is almost entirely absent. Minority holidays celebrated by smaller percentages of the population are also presented below.
This year was the first year I spent the High Holidays away from my home temple in Seattle, Washington. While I am not the most observant Jewish person, I have always enjoyed the High Holidays, as well as other Jewish celebrations. I started the High Holidays with the Erev Rosh Hashanah (evening services) at The […]
