Christmas Eve, or Kūčios, is one of the most important celebrations in Lithuania. It is a time for families to gather, clean their homes, pay debts, and have a special meal. The Christmas Eve supper includes 12 traditional dishes without meat or dairy to represent the 12 months and apostles. Families share thin wafers, cut apples, and partake in fortune telling rituals. The evening is meant to welcome the new year and remember absent family members.