14 photos that show how Christians around the world are celebrating Orthodox Christmas

July 30, 2016

By Allison Jackson

You might have packed away the Christmas tree and started your post-Christmas detox, but many Christians around the world are just starting to celebrate this important religious holiday.

Orthodox Christians who still follow the ancient Julian calendar, which was introduced in 46 B.C. during the reign of Julius Caesar before it was largely replaced by the Gregorian calendar in the 16th century, celebrate Christmas on Jan. 6 and 7.

Yep, 13 days after other Christians have opened their presents and stuffed themselves silly with turkey.

While traditions might vary from country to country, Christmas is still Christmas whenever and wherever it's celebrated.

Apart from attending religious services, Orthodox Christians also hold a traditional feast on "Old Christmas Day" on Jan. 7, marking the end of a grueling 40-day fast during which they are supposed to abstain from meat, fish and dairy products.

Gregorian calendar-using Orthodox Christians, Roman Catholics and Protestants, however, have already moved on to Epiphany, which celebrates the day the magi, otherwise known as the gift-laden three wise men, are said to have visited Jesus shortly after his birth in Bethlehem.

Some Christians also believe Jan. 6 marks the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist in the River Jordan.

Orthodox Christians on the Julian calendar will mark Epiphany on Jan. 19.

Here's a snapshot of how Christians in 14 different places are celebrating today:

1. Lviv, Ukraine

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