Friday, January 14, 2011

Сію сію Посіваю. З Новим Роком вас вітаю.


 Сію сію Посіваю. З Новим Щастям, З Новим Роком вас вітаю.

Today people are wishing one another a Happy old New Years.  Last night was 'Malanka' and the eve of the New Year according to the 'Julian' calender which most Ukrainians accept and recognize when celebrating religous holidays.  The youth, dress in costumes go from house to house with well wishes and earning some exra money in the process. 


 The Malanka groups will also stop cars on some of the quieter streets and demand that their well wishes be heard.  The ask if they can give their well wishes and begin by singing out of key and continue with this humorous parody of a "schedrik" or new years song until they are monetarily satisfied and only then will they allow the car to proceed.  



  
The week following "Risdvo" is generally accepted as a week of rejoicing with caroling and visiting.  It begins with groups of carolers going from house to house bringing news of Christ's birth.  In downtown Kolomaya a stage  is set up near the Christmas Tree to be used for various performances including carollers from many of the surrounding villages.  During these days groups of youth somewhat boisterously, roam the streets dressing in costumes depicting the nativity scene, carrying stars and other decorations, and vocalizing their version of the carols. 
The week begins with "Vertep" and ends with "Malanka" with simply some of the costumes changing, but they all bring the same message of joy and well wishing.  Early in the morning of the 14th. which is concidered New Year day, young boys and some girls go to the houses of friends and families, where they sow seeds of grain and wish the homeowner prosperity, health and happiness in the new year. 




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