Love Christmas and New Year’s Eve so much you’d like to celebrate both twice? If so, we have a rather unorthodox solution. Christmas in Russia, and Russian New Year, are celebrated by Orthodox Christians (the vast majority of the population) according to the Julian calendar on the 7th of January and 14th of January respectively. That means you can celebrate as usual in late December (as per the Gregorian calendar) before enjoying the Christmas holidays in Russia as families and friends come together for food, fun and fireworks as they await the arrival of the big man in blue – Ded Moroz (Grandfather Frost) and his trusty sidekick Snegurochka. To get into the festive spirit, make a beeline for Moscow or Saint Petersburg where you’ll find twinkling Christmas lights, cosy restaurants, grandiose buildings and some of the country’s best theatres. To add some serious sparkle to your Christmas in Russia, don’t miss the chance to rug up in hat and fur-lined boots to skate on the Neva River which flows through Saint Petersburg, an experience that will leave you rosy-cheeked and full of the Christmas spirit all over again.

Russia christmas holiday ideas

A few suggestions to get the holiday planning process started

Our Russia holiday collections

Discover different ways to explore Russia

Russia Christmas Holidays Guide

Practical advice and inspiration to help you prepare for your holiday

Russia Testimonials

2 reviews
4.5 / 5
"We had a fabulous time: all the planning and detail were worth it. I know I am a travel nerd but it (usually) pays off. This time it did. Thank you again for bearing with me. The guide in St Petersburg was especially good. "
Claire - Nottingham
Published on 11th April 2017
"We had a very nice time in Moscow. Our guide was really excellent. She was very knowledgeable. Her English was very good. She did a good job of explaining everything, including keeping an eye to making things interesting for my boys. I would highly recommend her to anyone. The excursions were also very good. The drivers and vehicles were also very nice"
Louise - Sheffield
Published on 22nd May 2019


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