On December 12, Ukrainians celebrate several important dates at once, both state and religious. It is a day full of traditions, historical events, and professional holidays, as well as a time when there are only 19 days left until the New Year.
In the church calendar, December 12 is the day of memory of the holy saint Spyridon, Bishop of Trimythia. A great miracle worker, known in the Orthodox world for his spiritual power, healings, and help to people, he became famous in the 4th century. He is credited with numerous miracles, support for the disadvantaged, and protection of believers.
In folk tradition, this day was associated with certain prohibitions:
• one should not wear old or dirty clothes;
• one should not curse or engage in fortune-telling;
• it is not recommended to take garbage out of the house, so as not to take out prosperity.
Our ancestors carefully observed nature:
• sparrows lining their nests with feathers - to a frosty winter;
• a cloudy morning - spring will be early;
• cattle returning to the stall on their own - expect snowfall;
• frost on trees in cloudy weather - the New Year will be like that.
It was believed that people born on this day have a harmonious character and easily achieve success in various endeavors. Today, Alexandra celebrates her name day, and the talisman of this day is a diamond - a symbol of strength, determination, and inner energy.
On this day, many significant events took place in the world:
• 1674 — the first outline of the history of Ukraine, "Synopsis," is published in the Kyiv-Pechersk Printing House;
• 1792 — Ludwig van Beethoven takes composition lessons from Haydn;
• 1901 — Guglielmo Marconi conducts the first transatlantic radio signal;
• 1991 — The Verkhovna Rada abolishes criminal liability for voluntary homosexual relations;
• 2007 — the trial of the maniac Serhiy Tkach begins in Dnipropetrovsk;
• 2008 — Switzerland joins the Schengen zone.
On December 12, Ukraine honors the Ground Forces, the largest and most powerful component of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Their role in defending the state has been especially important since 2014, when Russian aggression began. The Ground Forces perform key combat missions and ensure the country's defense capability.
This day is also celebrated:
• World Universal Health Coverage Day — a reminder of everyone's right to affordable healthcare;
• International Neutrality Day — an important date that emphasizes the importance of a policy of peace and stability;
• Retail Workers Day — honoring those who provide our lives;
• International Sound Check Day — a date with the humorous name 12/12, known among musicians as "one-two, one-two."
December 12 is a day that combines history, spirituality, professional holidays, and concern for global security.

