Birthday Traditions
Of Russia
In Russia a common tradition is for a child to receive a present at school from his or her teacher such as pencils, flowers, or books. Some of the children may also give small handmade gifts as well. The birthday party is either celebrated on the actual birthday or on the weekend. They might be served a birthday cake or a pie with a birthday greeting pricked into the crust.
It is a common custom to give flowers as a gift.
Teachers usually give their student a book or pencils.
Friends give small handmade gifts.
Children play a game that features a clothesline. What they do is prizes are hung from it and each guest cuts down a prize to take home.
The first piece of birthday cake or pie is given to the birthday child not to the guests.
If you're Russian, you may receive a birthday pie with a birthday greeting carved into the crust, instead of a cake!