Traditional Christmas Greeting: "Sarbatri Fericite"
Location: Eastern Europe
Tree Type: Traditional

Decorations:
- The star symbolizes the star of the Magi.
- The lights are part of any momentous occasion of Christian life.
- The globes represent the joy of the world. Some of the globes are handcrafted making them look more beautiful.
- The dolls, which are handcrafted, according to Romanian tradition symbolize the purity of the child.
- The apples, fir-cones and nuts represent the original ornaments that The Romanians decorated their trees with.

Traditions:
Christmas carols are one of the central features of Christmas celebrations in Romania. Groups of children or adults go door to door with stars and depictions of the Holy Family. They sing spiritual hymns to announce the coming of the savior during the days leading up to the 24th. On Christmas Eve, they often stay out caroling all night long. At each home, they are refreshed with bread, fruits, nuts, and sweets.

On December 20, a pig is roasted in a tradition called Ignatius. After it's roasted, burning straws are used to singe its snout. The pig is then thoroughly cleaned and pronounced ready to eat. It is cut as part of what is called the Pig' Funeral, or Alms. Families gather to eat together and drink wine.

Most of the food families enjoy on the 24th comes from the pig as well. Sausage, meat jelly, and sarmale (shredded pork rolled in cabbage) make up the main meal, while sponge cake, turta (cake with thin layers of rolled dough) and pastries follow as dessert.

The evening of the 24th is also the time when Romanian families traditionally get together to set up and decorate the Christmas tree. Candles or lights, stars, and ornaments make it a truly beautiful sight. Presents may be exchanged around the tree, and the next few days are spent with family and friends.