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The celebration of the New Year in Russia has undergone significant changes over the centuries. Traditionally, the Russian New Year followed the Julian calendar, falling on what is January 14th by the modern Gregorian calendar. However, after the Bolshevik Revolution, Russia adopted the Gregorian calendar in 1918, and New Year's Day was officially moved to January 1st.
During the Soviet era, Christmas was not celebrated due to the government's atheist stance. As a result, many Christmas traditions were transferred to New Year's Eve. For instance, "Ded Moroz" (Grandfather Frost), a figure similar to Santa Claus, and his granddaughter "Snegurochka" (The Snow Maiden) became central figures of New Year celebrations instead of Christmas.
New Year's Eve festivities in Russia are among the most cherished occasions of the year. Some traditional activities include:
Decorating: Homes and public places are adorned with lights and decorations. A "Novogodnaya Yolka" (New Year Tree) is put up and decorated similarly to a Christmas tree.
Festive Meals: Families gather for a lavish feast that often includes dishes such as Russian salad (Olivier), herring under a fur coat (Shuba), caviar, mandarin oranges, and sparkling wine.
President’s Speech: Minutes before midnight, people watch the President's address on TV where he summarizes the year and extends holiday greetings.
Celebrations: At midnight sharp, bells chime symbolizing the start of the New Year. Fireworks light up cities across Russia as people toast with champagne and wish each other "S Novym Godom!" (Happy New Year!)
Gift Giving: It is customary for gifts to be exchanged during New Year celebrations.
The holiday period extends from January 1st to January 8th (which includes Orthodox Christmas on January 7th). Many Russians enjoy time off work during this festive season. Public squares host concerts and events while families visit friends and relatives in a series of celebratory gatherings that can last well into January.
Outdoor activities such as ice skating, sledding, or attending frosty winter fairs are also popular during this holiday season.
Overall, New Year's Day encapsulates both festive joy and cultural heritage as Russians bid farewell to one year and welcome another with hope and celebration.
