Polotsk carolers will collect gifts for orphans on Shchedrets

January 13, Vitebsk / Diana Kurilo - BELTA /. Costumed carolers with Christmas songs and toasts to generous hosts will walk through Polotsk on Shchedrets and collect gifts for orphans, the ideology department of the Polotsk City Executive Committee told a BELTA correspondent. The ancient city preserves national traditions, and for several years now, on the first day of the old New Year, which is called "Shchedrets" in Belarus, it joyfully awaits cheerful carolers - students from local schools. As in ancient times, the children sing cheerful and laudatory songs, perform funny skits, and in return receive gifts - treats. The carolers' route runs through the city's enterprises and organizations; the merrymakers also visit the city hall. All the gifts received, which include not only sweets but also toys and stationery, are transferred to the pupils of boarding schools. The organizers of the Christmas celebration are the Polotsk-Glubokoye Diocese and the Polotsk City Executive Committee. -0-