Moscow is inviting its residents to participate in the exciting voting event for the "Winter in Moscow" photo contest, where they can choose the most original and captivating photographs created during this winter season. This initiative, part of the "Active Citizen" project, showcases 80 creative works across four distinct categories: "Sports Winter," "Gastronomic Winter," "New Year Trees," and "Journey to Christmas." Each category allows voters to select their top five most interesting shots.
The winners of this contest will not only gain recognition but will also receive 10,000 points from the city's loyalty program called "Million Prizes," as reported on the official website of the Mayor of Moscow. This program aims to reward citizens for their civic engagement and creativity.
Throughout the winter, Moscow residents have enthusiastically captured moments at various winter-themed locations established under the "Winter in Moscow" initiative. Many participants took photographs showcasing activities like ice skating, skiing, and tubing, contributing to the festive atmosphere. Others posed by beautifully decorated New Year's trees or at the "Million Prizes" program pavilions. Notably, some participants creatively dressed up as Ded Moroz (Father Frost) or wore traditional Russian hats and scarves, including pavlovoposad shawls and kokoshniks, all adding vibrant elements to their pictures.
According to the official announcements, over 3,000 photographs were submitted for the contest, and following moderation, 629 of these made it to the public voting album available under the "Active Citizen" initiative. Each photographer whose work is featured will receive 300 points as part of the loyalty rewards system. This local engagement not only showcases the talent of Moscow residents but also emphasizes the cultural richness of the winter season.
Alongside this voting event, Muscovites can also look forward to the upcoming festivities surrounding Maslenitsa, where they will have the chance to indulge in pancakes with various fillings. This culinary celebration will take place at various sites within the "Winter in Moscow" project, allowing citizens and tourists to enjoy local delights and special discounts during the festive week.
Residents of Moscow will vote on the perfect accompaniment for these pancakes. Last year, the traditional filling of red caviar garnered the most votes, leading to its successful sale at the "Moscow on the Wave" fish markets during Maslenitsa week.
Overall, the "Active Citizen" project, launched in 2014, has engaged over 7 million participants who have taken part in more than 7,000 polls, with decisions directly impacting the community being implemented monthly. With such active participation, initiatives like the "Winter in Moscow" photo contest and the upcoming Maslenitsa celebrations serve to strengthen community bonds and create memorable experiences for both locals and visitors.