The celebration of the New Year is traditionally one of the most cherished festivities across Russia, marked by joy, family gatherings, and cultural events. This year, as families come together to embrace the arrival of 2025, various activities, charity events, and public celebrations are taking place throughout the country, creating unforgettable experiences for citizens.
One heartwarming initiative came from Arslan Akberdiev, a deputy from the local council of the Nogai district, who, along with community workers, visited the families of soldiers involved in the Special Military Operation (SMO). During their visit, they expressed their gratitude to these families, handing out gifts and holiday sweets to children. Akberdiev emphasized, “I express great gratitude for raising worthy sons of our country. For children, the New Year is a holiday of joy and gifts...” This act not only spread holiday cheer but also demonstrated solidarity and support for families of military personnel.
Meanwhile, the Moscow Metro has embraced the festive spirit with the introduction of the 'Ice' train on the Circle Line, which will run until January 31, 2025. The carriages of this uniquely decorated subway train were inspired by the frozen landscapes of Siberia, featuring icicles and snowflakes, transporting passengers to a winter wonderland. “The train seems to have arrived from 40-degree Siberian frosts,” stated the Moscow government press service, highlighting the level of creativity involved.
On the entertainment front, the First Channel announced its major New Year's Eve program, entitled “New Year Night on the First. Together for 30 Years.” This special show will be hosted by popular figures like Anna Shatilova and Leonid Yakubovich, who will guide viewers through performances from notable artists including Polina Gagarina and Dima Bilan. With festive decorations reminiscent of winter wonderlands, the show promises to engage viewers with lively performances and heartfelt congratulatory messages.
On another channel, 'Rossiya 1', the program 'Blue Light' will feature renowned hosts and will welcome guests from the world of music, including Nikolai Rastorguev and Larisa Dolina. Special performances have also been planned, with artists like SHAMAN collaborating for duets, enhancing the holiday spirit for viewers at home.
Tatarstan had its own unique celebration with the marathon event “Happy New Year, Family!” broadcasted live, which involved over 50 families. This initiative was aimed at highlighting the importance of family values and sharing experiences from the past year. Vice Premier Leyla Fazleeva hosted the event, stating, “Such format has become good, kind tradition...” The families had the opportunity to connect and share their stories, with even soldiers sending greetings from the front lines, reinforcing the bonds within the community.
Charitable contributions have also been prevalent this New Year, as seen when Naro-Fomin community leaders distributed presents to children whose fathers are serving. “It's wonderful to deliver joy and reassurance to these families,” remarked Eugeniy Klyushkin, head of the territorial administration, highlighting the importance of maintaining connections with those at the front.
Ulyanovsk has also taken part in the festive atmosphere not by hosting gatherings but by becoming the venue for an exhibition of Soviet postcards from the 1950s and 1960s. Over 250 holiday-themed postcards were showcased, depicting celebration spirit from decades past. Sergey Pavlov, the exhibition organizer, stated, “These postcards are witnesses of their time. I would like families to always exchange greetings and share warmth...,” emphasizing nostalgia and tradition during the holiday season.
Across the nation, these celebrations serve as reminders of the resilience and unity of the Russian people—especially during challenging times, such as the current military operations. The focus on family, togetherness, and support shines through as communities come together to celebrate not just the New Year but the spirit of cooperation and kindness, reaffirming the importance of family ties.
