Russian Toasts

Apr 30th, 2006

Toasting is a big part of any party or special occasion to Russians. Every shot of Vodka drunk must be preceded by a toast. It is a way of congratulating and wishing good luck. It is a tradition that goes way way back (not sure how long, but a long time).

Typical Russian Family

As far as I can tell, you can toast darn near anything you want to. But, the first 3 toasts are traditionally reserved for the following:

Toast #1 - Traditionally, you toast the occasion or holiday.
Toast #2 - You should toast the host of the party.
Toast #3 - This toast is always for love.

After that, you can toast anything you want to. You will need to finish the bottle. Once it’s opened, you are not allowed to save it.

The opener of the bottle pours the first shots. Then who ever is toasting pours the next shot. If there is no toast but an agreement that the next toast is due, the host or a close friend will pour the vodka. If a woman is going to toast, she can pour if she likes, but typically her male friends or relatives will pour for her. If there is no host, then the shot will be poured by the person who is proposing to drink.