New Year in Kyrgyzstan

Date

New Year's celebrations in Kyrgyzstan occur on January 1st, in line with the Gregorian calendar.

History

The New Year holiday in Kyrgyzstan has roots that intertwine with the Soviet era, when secular celebrations were promoted over religious ones. After gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Kyrgyzstan continued to celebrate New Year's Day as a national holiday.

Traditions

• Festive Decorations: Cities across Kyrgyzstan are adorned with lights, Christmas trees (known locally as New Year trees), and other festive decorations.

• Ayaz Ata: A local version of Santa Claus, called "Ayaz Ata" (Father Frost), and his granddaughter "Kar Kyz" (Snow Maiden) are popular figures who distribute gifts to children.

• Family Gatherings: Families typically gather for a celebratory meal that may include traditional dishes such as "beshbarmak," alongside Russian-inspired New Year dishes like "Olivier salad" (also known as Russian salad).

• Public Celebrations: Concerts and public events are common, with fireworks displays being a highlight in major cities like Bishkek.

• Gift Giving: Exchanging gifts is a common practice among family and friends.

Activities

People engage in various activities such as:

• Attending parties or concerts.
• Watching televised presidential addresses and festive programs.
• Participating in outdoor activities if weather permits, like ice skating or playing in the snow.

New Year's Eve is seen as a time of hope and setting resolutions for the upcoming year. The holiday serves as an opportunity to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one with optimism.