Ukrainian families celebrate first Christmas in Moose Jaw

Many Ukrainian newcomers will be celebrating their first Christmas in Canada this weekend.

Natasha Rybina moved to Moose Jaw on November 12 with her husband and 15-month-old daughter, as the family fled from fighting near Zaporizhzhia. They are currently living with a host family in Moose Jaw until the spring when more living options are expected to open up. Natasha's husband was able to find work as a carpenter, while she stays home and takes care of the baby.

"I think it will be strange for us, but our host...she will cook a Christmas dinner for us, with traditional Canadian food," said Natasha. "She invited not only us but other Ukrainians. We will know your traditions and we can show our traditions."

Natasha says in her home province they don't cook a lot of traditional food. One of the main staples is a Christmas porridge called Kutya, which usually starts off the Christmas supper.

Natasha Rybina says Moose Javians have been very generous

Here in Moose Jaw, a Christmas party for Ukrainian newcomers was held this past Sunday at St. Andrew's United Church. The event also marked St. Nicholas Day which is celebrated December 19 in Ukraine.

"We met a lot of people at the Christmas party this past Sunday and we exchanged phone numbers," noted Natasha. "I think we will talk with these people later and we can meet and find new friends here, not only Ukrainians but Canadians too."

Ukrainian Christmas is celebrated on January 7th, however, Natasha says an increasing number of Ukrainians are starting to celebrate with the rest of the world on December 25. 

Natasha says Moose Javians have made them feel right at home since they arrived back in November.

"It is a very nice city, we like it very much because we got a lot of help from the citizens of Moose Jaw. This whole apartment, it's donations. We got everything we need for living thanks to the people of Moose Jaw. We are very glad about this and very excited about this."

One of the highlights for Natasha and her family since arriving was the Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade which was held on December 4 along Main Street.

"We liked it very much. It's unusual for us, we don't have such parades in Ukraine. It was interesting to look at. Our daughter was excited," she laughed.