Russia is a country renowned for its rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions. Moving into this country thus offers expats a rich cultural experience. Beyond sharing a new experience, it also fosters a deeper understanding of the country’s traditions and values. The yearlong celebrations and festivals conducted in the country are then the first and best place for such experiences and understanding.
Celebrations like New Year’s Eve, Masleṇitsa, and Victory Day also allow expats to connect with locals. This enhances a sense of community and belonging within them. Moreover, it provides unique insights into the country’s history, cuisine, music, and customs. This in turn facilitates cultural insights and broadens the perspectives of engaging individuals.
Relocation companies in Russia are also found to emphasize the role of these festivities in aiding language acquisition and familiarization with cultural nuances among expats.
In short Russian festivities enrich expat stay in the country with authentic experiences. The following exploration into these festivals with insights from international moving companies in Russia gives a better picture of the depth of this enrichment.
New Year’s Eve
Also known as Novy God, this event celebrated on December 31st is the most popular holiday in Russia.
This event is characterized by:
- Family gatherings for festive meals, exchange gifts and enjoy fire displays.
- Father Frost and his granddaughter bringing presents to the children.
- Grand festivities in public squares. The spectacular event staged at Moscow’s Red Square is one such festivity to point out.
This holiday which is a time for self-reflection and setting resolutions is indeed a blend of old and new traditions. No wonder that international moving companies in Russia observe it as a cornerstone of Russian cultural celebrations. Due to the same reasons, it is an event not to be missed during your time in Russia.
Russian Orthodox Christmas
Religious traditions and customs are integral to Russian culture and this particular event celebrated on January 7th following the Julian calendar emphasizes such relevance.
The specialties of this event include:
- A religious holiday marked by church services, carol singing, and family gatherings.
- A Christmas Eve meal known as the “Holy Supper”. This is a main attraction of the event with 12 meatless dishes symbolizing the 12 apostles.
- Traditional foods such as kutya which is a sweet grain pudding.
In short, it is a festival of spiritual reflection and joy. Moving companies Russia also observes it as the perfect opportunity to engage with authentic Russian culture.
Maslenitsa
Here is another must-have experience highlighted by the relocation companies in Russia. It is a weeklong festival that is usually conducted in late February or early March.
It is peculiar by the following features:
- A feasting on blini which is a pancake. It symbolizes the sun.
- Outdoor activities such as snowball fights and puppet shows.
- A festive atmosphere that is created by music, dancing, and bonfires.
- The torching of a sculpture made of straw. This symbolizes the end of winter and the welcoming of spring.
In short, it is a vibrant festival that showcases the Russian folk culture and its community spirit. Relocation companies in Russia also observe it as a blend of pagan and Christian traditions that turn out as a lively event.
- Victory Day
This deeply emotional and patriotic day held on May 9th commemorates the end of World War II.
It is marked by:
- Military parades that feature military equipment and a march of troops.
- Fireworks and ceremonies honoring veterans.
- The “Immortal Regiment” march. This is a significant tradition in which people march carrying the photos of relatives who fought in the war.
International moving companies in Russia are found to recommend this event to a clientele who desires to experience a Russian culture immersed in patriotism while revealing its emotional sides.
- Ivan Kupala Day
This ancient Slavic festival which marks the summer solstice is something that offers a lively and mystical atmosphere worth cherishing.
The festivities include:
- People jump over the bonfire, dancing, singing, and searching for the mythical fern flower. It is believed to bring good fortune.
- Water activities such as swimming and water fights.
- Other rituals related to water and fire, symbolize purification and renewal.
Overall this festivity is found to blend pagan and Christian traditions with a focus on nature and fertility. It is indeed a unique and cherished celebration in Russian culture often recommended by moving companies Russia for their valued clientele.
Other than these key must-to-experience celebrations and festivities, there are innumerable celebrations in Russia that are worth experiencing. Russia Day ( Den Rossii), city day celebrations, the Scarlet Sails, Russian Orthodox Easter, and the Day of Unity are other events that are guaranteed to offer unique Russian experiences.
In case you plan to visit Russia shortly, be sure to do deep research on such festivities. This will help to have a genuine Russian experience which is likely to broaden your horizons. Another option is to consult with a relocation company in Russia that is knowledgeable enough to give proper guidance. If this is your choice, we at Helpxpat are here to assist. Connect with us for detailed insights into the options that await you in Russia.