Winter Holidays in Moscow
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Moscow continues to host various holiday-related activities and events to ignite your festive mood. Read on to learn more about upcoming street performances, fairs, and a large-scale celebration at a famous tourist location.
VDNH Winter Fair
The Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy (VDNH) is hosting a large fair dedicated to the celebration of Christmas and New Year, with additional winter activities lasting up until February.
The ice-skating rink at VDNH is already open, offering several pavilions for skating and enjoying the scenic views along the central alley, fountains, and other landmarks. Several options are available for customers: on weekdays, day sessions (11 am to 3 pm) cost 1,200 RUB, and evening sessions (5–10 pm) cost 1,450 RUB; during the weekend, day sessions (11 am to 3 pm) cost 1,450 RUB, and evening sessions (5–10 pm) cost 1,650 RUB. On certain days, visitors can enjoy DJ sets (from 7:30 to 9 pm on December 27, January 10, January 16, January 23, February 14, and February 21). Finally, those looking for a more unique experience can try nighttime skating sessions—the ice rink will be open from 12 pm to 2:30 am on December 27, January 3, January 6, January 25, and February 14. The prices will be published on the website (in Russian). Tickets may be purchased here.
On December 25, a themed holiday fair welcomed its first visitors. Located in the area behind the Museum of Slavic Writing, it will be open until January 11. Souvenirs, candles, and handicrafts are available for purchase, as are treats and hot drinks.
A special celebration is reserved for the night of New Year’s Eve, December 31, with performances by professional figure skaters, music acts, and ballet on ice. There will also be seasonal decorations and photo booths in various areas.
Finally, the winter exhibition Moscow in Russian Art, open until February 1, showcases 115 masterpieces from the collection of the State Russian Museum in St Petersburg. The paintings give a fascinating overview of Moscow through the eyes of different artists throughout centuries. Some of the works are on loan for the first time.
Where: VDNH, Pavilion No.1
Price: 250 RUB (for students)
Tickets (in Russian)
Address of VDNH: 119 Prospekt Mira
Tropical Winter Fair
An annual orchid fair will be held in the Apothecary Garden. Visitors will have a chance to see some of the most unique specimens from the garden’s large orchid collection. The orchids can be seen in greenhouses—other plants will also be displayed there. The garden itself is decorated in accordance with the season, with various adornments and photo booths located throughout the area.
When: December 27–March 1
Where: 26 Prospekt Mira
Price: 350 RUB (for students) on weekdays or 400 RUB (for students) during weekends and holidays. There are no additional fees required to see the fair. Tickets can be purchased here (in Russian).
Hermitage Garden Installations
The Hermitage Garden will be studded with installations, art pieces, and other decorative objects. Among these is an array of sculptures whose traditional clothing mimics each of the four seasons. Additionally, on December 27–28 (at 4–5 pm and 7–8 pm), visitors will get a chance to see a street performance based on the classic Soviet novel The Twelve Chairs for free.
Where: 3 Karetny Ryad
Food Fair in the Muzeon Park of Arts
In preparation for the holidays, the Muzeon Park of Arts—a large open-air sculpture museum—will host a seasonal food fair. Here you will be able to sample and buy a variety of holiday treats and drinks while listening to vocal performances and music acts. Visitors can look forward to many options ranging from street food to restaurant meals, both international cuisine and authentic Russian dishes.
Where: 10 Krymsky Val