The rite of the Kolyady Tsars dates back to the 18th century, when the tsar's military units were located not far from the village of Semezhevo (Kopyl District, Minsk Oblast). According to the local legend, during the New Year celebrations in accordance to the old style calendar (Julian calendar) soldiers and officers visited local houses to give comic performances and receive rewards. Since then, locals continued the tradition and turned it into a unique Christmas event.
In 2009, the unique Belarusian rite of the Kolyady Tsars was added to the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
