Poveşti La Gura Sobei - Romanian Christmas Stories & Carols

As part of the Liverpool European Christmas Trail, the Scoala Romaneasca "Nicolae Iorga", Liverpool and the Learning and Development Multicultural Centre, warmly invite you to experience Christmas in Romania with us at our Poveşti La Gura Sobei - Romanian Christmas Stories & Carols!

A Romanian Christmas combines religious and traditional elements, bringing joy and warmth to people's homes, with many Romanians also attending church services to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and, on Christmas day, families come together sharing presents and food after the morning mass service.

This free celebration includes:

• Welcome & introductory speech
• Decorating the Christmas tree
• Christmas stories from different regions in Romania (where the attendees' families are from)
• Art & Craft Christmas decorations to take home
• Family Christmas Carols

Some of the traditions you may learn more about:

• "Colindatul" caroling, which has a strong religious connotation. A 'colindatul' is a group of carolers, often in traditional costumes, who visit homes to sing carols and bring good wishes, starting on Christmas Eve and continuing through January. The carolers, ranging from children to adults, are often rewarded with treats like fruits, nuts, or homemade pastries, and small amounts of money.

• "Steaua" or Star Carol: Children carry a star made of colored paper and sing songs recounting the story of the Nativity. The "Steaua" or "Star Carol" tradition involves carolers carrying a decorated star symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem.

• "Plugusorul" is a New Year's Eve tradition where groups, often young boys, recite or sing verses wishing for a bountiful harvest and good luck. The performance of "Plugusorul" is accompanied by the sound of bells and whips, symbolizing hope and prosperity.

• "Sorcova" is practiced on New Year's Day by children who use a decorated stick to gently tap family members while reciting verses for health, happiness, and prosperity. The "sorcova" is decorated with flowers, ribbons, and tinsel, adding vibrancy to the tradition.

• Special Christmas meal preparation: Dishes include "sarmale" (cabbage rolls filled with meat and rice), "cozonac" (sweet bread with nuts, poppy seeds, or cocoa), and various pork dishes. These dishes are often accompanied by other traditional foods like sausages, cheese, and various pickled vegetables, creating a table that is as colorful as it is delicious.

Liverpool European Christmas Trail is coordinated by the Liverpool European Partnership, funded by the Duchy of Lancaster Benevolent Fund and supported by Liverpool City Council.

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