Non-traditional christma specific dishes may differ from country to country, but many of them are universal. Thus fish, mushrooms and various types of grain are the main offerings. In Poland, the Wigilia supper begins with eating soups, traditionally mushroom soup or barszcz.

The ritual for Catholics and Orthodox Christians in Ukraine is to start with kutia. Regarding the fish dishes, these are usually herring, carp or pike. Mushrooms, especially dried or pickled, are also one of the main ingredients used in Christmas Eve dishes. There is the whole ritual before the meal begins.

Once the first star appears on the sky, each member of the family washes his face, hands and legs in cold water saying: “Be as healthy as this water is. The most brave people go to local rivers or lakes and have a short swim there. After the water procedure is finished, the family goes on with a prayer, often the Our Father. The Christmas Eve supper is usually held under candlelight and starts in the evening after the first star appears in the sky.