By Ron Chen, Bureau Chief, Asia
Moscow kicks off the signature festive season event Journey to Christmas, which incorporates festive magical places, must-see dynamic destinations, decorations, lighting, traditional winter sports activities, and meeting Father Frost and Snegurochka, or the Snow Maiden. The festival will last until January 8.
The large-scale event is transforming the city: twinkling lights illuminate the streets, ice skating rinks and slides pop up everywhere, and there are shows with music, live performances and more for the whole family to enjoy, all venues filled with delicious food and holiday cheer. Activities take place not only in the city center but also in the distant boroughs. For many, the event marks the start of the festivities sparking that magic and holiday cheer in muscovites and the city guests young and old.
Travel across Russia in 2023
The major theme of the festival is traveling around Russia and getting to know the holiday traditions that are typical for different regions of the multinational country. The festival encourages the event guest to get a taste of what the holidays look like in every region of Russia. With many holiday markets scattered around the city ready to welcome visitors to taste Russia’s national dishes and warming drinks, indulge in local products and handicrafts from all around Russia.
With a return to travel, this holiday season is set to be extra special and extra busy. The UN named Moscow the best city in the world in terms of quality of life in its global cities ranking for 2022. Its beauty is undeniable, but in winter the city looks even more imposing, and Moscow is happy to invite everyone to share the festive joy.
Giving back to the community
Christmas is a time for giving. During the festive season, festival guests can surprise their loved ones by gifting them a New Year’s Miracle. The new years’ miracle can be won by taking part in the Kind Christmas Tree Campaign. The campaign calls for event guests to pick up a toy from the christmas tree and scan the QR code for more details, the donations from the campaign will be sent to a notable cause.
