There are many traditions associated with Christmas Eve. Only lean dishes are placed on the table, which must be an odd number – 5, 7, 9 or 11.
A soda bread or one made with kvass is kneaded. It is still fasting, so live yeast is not allowed. The bread is broken by the oldest man in the house, high above the heads of the guests. The goal is for everything that has been planted, and it is expected to sprout, grow tall and fast. The first piece of the bread is for the house, and the second is left in front of an icon of the Virgin Mary. Everyone must take a piece of the bread. Whoever gets the coin will be healthy and happy throughout the year.
The table is left for a long time to ensure that all wishes and magical practices that have been made will reach heaven and be heard and fulfilled, writes ladyzone.bg. The food is not taken away, but remains on the table so that the dead can also come and take some of the dishes for the holiday. That is why clean utensils must also be left.