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Winter Festivals in Moscow, Russia

Russian Christian and Pagan Holidays are Celebrated in Moscow with Festivals

By , About.com Guide

If you're looking for something to do in the winter months while you travel in Russia, consider making an appearance at one of Moscow's winter festivals.

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Russian Winter Festival In Moscow

The Moscow Russian Winter Festival takes place in Izmailovo Park, where visitors can enjoy troika rides and hear folk music performances. It takes place on the last week of December and the first week of January.

It is possible to experience Winter Festival activities elsewhere in Moscow, like ice sculpting on Red Square and snowman-building on Arbat Street.

December Nights Festival Moscow

During the latter half of December and the first couple of weeks of January, the Moscow classical music scene is at its winter height. Both local and international musicians perform during the December Nights Festival in Moscow.

New Year's Celebrations in Moscow

Head to Red Square to join the throngs of celebrants ringing in the new year with the chime of the Kremlin clock tower, which is Moscow's version of watching the ball drop in New York City. Dress warmly, though, because if you think it's cold by day, Moscow at midnight on January 1 takes bravery and and a good pair of warm boots.

Read more about the Russian New Year

Russian Orthodox Christmas - January 6 and 7

Orthodox Christmas falls on December 7, and both the 6th and 7th of December are religious days for Othodox believers. Christmas masses are held in churches throughout the city, but the mass held at the Kremlin is one of the most popular.

Svyatki, Russian Christmastide

Russian Christmastide takes place between January 7 and January 19th. It is closely associated with fortune telling, caroling, and other traditions. On Epiphany, January 19th, taking a swim in icy river water is a tradition for some.

Maslenitsa: Russian Pancake Week in Moscow

Maslenitsa, a festival leftover from Pagan times, nevertheless corresponds with the Orthodox celebrations of Lent and Easter. This winter festival ushers out the cold weather and welcomes spring with traditional food (like blini, or Russian pancakes, that symbolize the sun), games, performances, and of course plenty of gut-warming vodka.

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