Christmas Day

**Christmas Day in Slovakia** is a cherished and deeply traditional holiday celebrated on December 25th. It is a time for family gatherings, religious observances, and festive customs. The celebrations often begin on Christmas Eve, known as *Štedrý deň*, which is considered the most important part of the holiday. Families prepare a special meatless dinner, typically featuring dishes like *kapustnica* (sauerkraut soup), *opekance* (small bread rolls), and fried carp. A common tradition is placing a fish scale under the dinner plate for good luck and prosperity. On Christmas Day, families attend church services to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The day is marked by a festive atmosphere, with homes decorated with nativity scenes, Christmas trees, and lights. Gift-giving is also a key part of the celebration, often attributed to *Ježiško* (Baby Jesus), who is believed to bring presents to children. Slovak Christmas is a time of warmth, togetherness, and reflection, blending religious significance with rich cultural traditions.