New Year's Eve celebrations are well underway in Saint Petersburg, with the city's famous Palace Square buzzing with excitement as residents and visitors gather to ring in the new year. Notably, the city's iconic Christmas tree has been adorned with its shining star, creating the perfect backdrop for holiday festivities.
This year, the metro will operate around the clock from December 31 to January 1, accommodating late-night revelers. According to local authorities, "The metro will work 24/7 during the New Year’s night," ensuring ample transportation for those celebrating.
While the metro operates continuously, 30 surface transport routes will also be active throughout the New Year’s Eve festivities. A combination of 22 bus routes, four trolleybus lines, and four tram services will remain available. Residents can expect buses and trams to arrive every 30 minutes and metro trains every 5-10 minutes during key hours, ensuring smooth transit options for those enjoying the celebrations.
The public can enjoy even more than just transportation updates; the festive activities abound! On Palace Square, the massive 9-meter sledding hill offers fun for the family, inviting kids to slide down for free on inflatable tubes. Nearby, the Christmas market is operational daily from 12:00 to 21:00, serving as another highlight of the holiday atmosphere.
Weather-wise, residents have been cautioned about dropping temperatures just as the celebrations kick off. Alexander Kolesov, the city's chief meteorologist, shared insights about the impending conditions, stating, "The temperature may drop to -2 degrees, but we expect mild changes after New Year’s.” This means outdoor activities could be brisk but manageable for those dressed appropriately.
Aside from the cold, the city is prepared for the festivities, with increased public safety measures around popular gathering areas. Officers are present on Palace Square to monitor the celebrations, ensuring everyone's safety as they enjoy this festive time.
The overall atmosphere is one of joy and anticipation, as Saint Petersburg gears up to welcome the New Year. Locals and tourists alike are encouraged to enjoy the myriad of activities available, from the joyful sledding experiences to appreciating the festive decorations throughout the city.
With public transport available and numerous events planned, the New Year celebrations promise to be both memorable and accessible. So, as the clock nears midnight on December 31, the spirit of optimism and festivity fills the air, setting the stage for what many hope to be a prosperous year ahead.