Christmas in Russia is a very special time of year, filled with traditions and celebrations. On Christmas Eve, families gather together for a special dinner called "Svyata Vecheria" which consists of 12 dishes, each representing a month of the year. The main dish is traditionally a whole roasted pig or goose. After dinner, children open presents and there is usually a Christmas tree in the house. People also go to midnight church services called "Svyata noch" which is a very special and solemn occasion.