Russian New Year Celebration

1. Date and Importance

The Russian New Year celebration takes place on January 1st and marks the beginning of the year according to the Gregorian calendar. It is a highly significant holiday in Russia, considered a time of joy, renewal, and hope for the coming year.

2. Preparations

Russians start preparing for the New Year well in advance. Houses are thoroughly cleaned, windows are decorated with frost patterns, and a New Year tree (similar to a Christmas tree) is embellished with lights, ornaments, and a star placed at the top.

3. Festive Decorations

The entire cityscape in Russia is adorned with sparkling lights and decorations during the New Year season. Streets, parks, and buildings are beautifully lit, creating a vibrant and magical atmosphere.

4. New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve festivities are the most important part of the celebration. Families and friends gather together for a grand dinner, featuring traditional Russian dishes like Olivier salad, caviar, salmon, and Russian-style champagne.

5. The President's Speech

Each year, Russians eagerly await the President's New Year address which is broadcasted on national television. The president reflects on the achievements of the past year and shares his hopes and aspirations for the nation's future.

6. The Chimes of the Kremlin Clock

As the clock strikes midnight, all eyes turn to the Spasskaya Tower's clock on the Kremlin building in Moscow. The chimes of this clock signal the arrival of the New Year, and people across the country raise a toast and exchange warm wishes.

7. Fireworks

Fireworks displays light up the sky across Russia to celebrate the New Year. Cities compete to create the most spectacular show, with Moscow and St. Petersburg being particularly renowned for their dazzling fireworks.

8. Gift Exchange

After the fireworks, families exchange gifts and children often receive presents from Ded Moroz (Father Frost) and his granddaughter Snegurochka (Snow Maiden). These characters are popular figures in Russian folklore and are believed to bring presents to well-behaved children during the New Year season.

9. Games, Music, and Dancing

The rest of the night is filled with fun activities, games, singing, and dancing. Russians enjoy playing games like "What? Where? When?" and organize concerts or go to theaters to witness special New Year performances.

10. New Year's Day

New Year's Day itself is a quieter day where people often relax, visit friends and family, and stroll in parks to enjoy the winter atmosphere. It is a time for reflection, setting goals for the year ahead, and expressing gratitude for the past year.