Travel to Moscow during winter is a unique experience, and you won't lack for things to do and see. Russians are experts at making the cold season fun and festive, so whether you're out in the weather or indoors and safe from the cold, there are a variety of activities to keep you busy during this time.
Ice Skating in Moscow
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Ice skating rinks are plentiful in Moscow during winter. In the heart of historic Moscow, an ice rink appears in front of the GUM department store every year. Other ice skating rinks can be found at Gorky Park, Sokolniki Park, Izmailovsky Park, and Patriarch's Pond.
Icebreaker Cruise on the Moscow River
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Boat cruises down the Moscow River offer a special view of Moscow. Previously only available during the warm seasons, boats that can break up the ice that crusts the river during winter have now been launched. You can enjoy dinner or lunch during this 2-hour cruise while viewing the snow-capped sights of Moscow from within the glass-enclosed deck.
Ice Sculpture in Moscow
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Ice sculptors show off their skills in Moscow during winter. Ice sculpting competitions are organized on an annual basis at various venues and featuring various themes. Ice sculptures are also made as a part of the Winter Festival in Moscow. The Gallery of Russian Ice Sculpture in Moscow celebrates Russia's ice sculpting tradition throughout the year.
Snowman Parades
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The snow becomes so plentiful in Moscow during winter that it is possible to create legions of snowmen within a small area. Look for snowman parades on Arbat Street and elsewhere in Moscow.
Moscow Winter Festivals
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Enjoy festivals celebrating the winter season in Moscow. Russians love to celebrate the winter weather and the holidays with the Russian Winter Festival, Moscow's December Nights, New Year's Eve festivities on Red Square, and finally Maslenitsa, which occurs towards the end of winter.
Painting on Snow Competition
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An annual competition called "Art on Snow" takes place in Moscow's Sokolniki Park. Dozens of families participate to create temporary masterpieces on the smooth white canvas nature provides during winter.
New Year's Trees
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Russians mark the holidays with New Year's trees rather than Christmas trees, but these trees usually stay up until the Russian Christmas is celebrated on January 7th. Inevitably, trees will be erected at significant spots in the city, like Red Square and the Kremlin's Cathedral Square. These trees offer travelers photo opportunities - by day, with family and friends - and by night, when they glow with their trimmings of lights.
