Orthodox Christmas in Toronto

Many Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas on January 7, following the Julian calendar. Toronto’s large Serbian, Russian, Macedonian, Ethiopian, Eritrean, Coptic and other communities keep these traditions alive. In 2027, Christmas Eve is Wednesday, January 6 and Christmas Day is Thursday, January 7.

Not every Orthodox church uses January 7: Greek Orthodox churches celebrate on December 25, and since 2023 many Ukrainian churches have also moved to December 25, while some Ukrainian families still keep January 7. Check with each community.

Christmas Eve supper

In Ukrainian and other Eastern European traditions, the Holy Supper (Sviata Vechera) on Christmas Eve features twelve meatless dishes, such as kutia (wheat berries with poppy seeds and honey), varenyky and borscht. The meal begins when the first star appears.

Church services

Orthodox churches across Toronto hold Christmas Eve vigils and Christmas Day liturgies, often with beautiful choral singing. Visitors are generally welcome; dress modestly.

Why January 7?

The difference comes from calendars. Most of the world uses the Gregorian calendar, introduced in 1582, while many Orthodox churches continue to use the older Julian calendar for religious feasts. The Julian calendar currently runs 13 days behind, so December 25 on the Julian calendar falls on January 7 on the Gregorian calendar.

Traditions you may see

• Fasting before Christmas: many Orthodox Christians observe the Nativity Fast, avoiding meat and dairy in the weeks before Christmas.
• Badnjak (Serbian): an oak branch or log brought into the home and burned on Christmas Eve.
• Česnica (Serbian): a round Christmas bread with a hidden coin.
• Genna (Ethiopian and Eritrean): a Christmas celebration with church services, white traditional clothing and festive meals such as doro wat.
• Carolling: groups visit homes singing traditional carols.
• The greeting “Christ is born!” with the response “Glorify Him!”

Visiting an Orthodox Christmas service

• Services can be long, sometimes several hours, and many attendees stand.
• Dress modestly; women may cover their hair in some churches.
• Arrive early for midnight or late-evening services.
• Follow the congregation’s lead, and ask a member if you’re unsure about customs.

Shopping for Orthodox Christmas in Toronto

Eastern European, Balkan and Ethiopian grocers and bakeries in neighbourhoods across Toronto stock seasonal breads, sweets and ingredients in early January. Bloor West Village has Eastern European delis, and the Danforth and Bloor Street West areas have Ethiopian and Eritrean shops and restaurants.

Orthodox Christmas in Toronto: FAQ

Is Orthodox Christmas a holiday in Ontario? No, January 7 isn’t a statutory holiday, though many people take the day off.

When is Orthodox Christmas Eve 2027? Wednesday, January 6, 2027.

More: holiday traditions in Toronto

Where to experience it

• Bloor West Village has many Ukrainian bakeries, delis and shops.
• The Danforth is a hub of Greek culture, where Christmas is celebrated on December 25. Christmas on the Danforth
• Ethiopian and Eritrean restaurants and churches are found across the city.

More: holiday traditions in Toronto