International Ded Moroz Convention Comes to Moscow’s VDNKh
The New Year is one of the most popular holidays in the world — and the biggest celebration of the year in Russia. The closer it comes, the more events there are.
Ded Moroz, the Slavic version of Santa Claus, is a character synonymous with the Russian New Year. Last weekend, Ded Morozes from around the world gathered at VDNKh park, one of Moscow's most famous exhibition spaces.
More than 100 winter wizards came all the way from different parts of Russia and countries like Armenia, Belarus and Moldova to participate in the festival, which was created to introduce people to the culture and traditions of different countries.
Here's a look at the wintertime festivities in action:
Ded Moroz, the Slavic version of Santa Claus, is a character synonymous with the Russian New Year. Last weekend, Ded Morozes from around the world gathered at VDNKh park, one of Moscow's most famous exhibition spaces.
More than 100 winter wizards came all the way from different parts of Russia and countries like Armenia, Belarus and Moldova to participate in the festival, which was created to introduce people to the culture and traditions of different countries.
Here's a look at the wintertime festivities in action:
The many Ded Morozes were joined by Snegurochkas (Snow Maidens) dressed in traditional costumes.
Sofia Sandurskaya / Moskva News Agency
The parade was accompanied by a wind band.
Sofia Sandurskaya / Moskva News Agency
Ded Moroz greeted guests alongside his colleagues, including Arthuron from Ossetia and Dzmer Pap from Armenia.
Sofia Sandurskaya / Moskva News Agency
Special photo zones were set up near light displays to capture the memories.
Sofia Sandurskaya / Moskva News Agency
Visitors could watch a performance by the famous Dagestani tightrope walker Rasul Abakarov.
Sofia Sandurskaya / Moskva News Agency
The festival was accompanied by ethnic music, New Year's jazz, sweet treats and gifts.
Sofia Sandurskaya / Moskva News Agency
Ded Moroz's residence is said to be the town of Veliky Ustyug in the Vologda region of northwestern Russia.
Sofia Sandurskaya / Moskva News Agency
Russian children who are on their best behavior can expect to receive presents from Ded Moroz on New Year's Eve.
Sofia Sandurskaya / Moskva News Agency
