Name days are a traditional celebration tied to the feast days of saints in the Orthodox Christian calendar. Each name corresponds to a saint, and individuals celebrate their name day on the feast day of their namesake saint. In Russia, name days often hold more religious significance than birthdays and are observed with prayers, attending church, and sometimes receiving blessings. The person celebrating may host a small gathering with close friends and family. Guests typically bring flowers, religious icons, or small gifts, but the focus remains on spiritual reflection and gratitude. Historically, name days were closely linked to the Orthodox Church, and their celebration remains most common among practicing Christians. Unlike birthdays, name days are not fixed to a calendar date, as they depend on the saint's day. This tradition is also popular in many other Orthodox and Catholic countries, each with its variations.
