Russian Festivals & Events

Russian Festivals: Holiday Seasonal Events & Special Occasions 

In particular, Russian Orthodox Christmas remains a captivating cultural remnant. Russian locals celebrate this sacred day in churches and households across the country. Families congregate at midnight to worship, forming a large crowd scattered with luminescent candles, while bright Christmas lights are strung above the snow-laden streets. Another lovely seasonal delight is the Russia Orthodox Easter Festival which falls later than Easter on the regular Christian calendar (early April). It involves more solemn rituals and a week of church services starting from Palm Sunday. 

Russian Festivals: Theatrical Events – Opera, Ballet, Musicals & Cinema 

If travellers are looking to explore Russian festivals that highlight performing arts and theatrical events, they can visit the Stars of the White Nights Festival from May to July. Held in St Petersburg Mariinsky Theatre, this festival highlights Russia’s extraordinary talent in many fields ranging from opera, classical music, ballet and orchestras. Many of these feature talented solo musicians, famous conductors, dancers and singers. In Moscow, travellers can also attend the Golden Mask Festival, a two-month program that showcases a diverse catalogue of theatrical art performed across prestigious venues. Similarly, the Moscow International Film Festival (held from June to early July) calls for a wonderful celebration of Russian cinema. This includes screenings of Russian documentaries, short films, avant-garde features and even the latest Hollywood blockbusters. 

Russia Festivals: Cultural Events & Traditional Celebrations 

For Russia tourists seeking thrilling festive celebrations and vibrant traditions, the Maslenitsa Festival is an absolute favourite. This is especially true for those who love pancakes! However, traditional Russian pancakes (blini) have various fillings such as sour cream, caviar and salmon, giving a unique cultural twist to your typical breakfast food. The famous Russia Winter Festival is another fantastic event which kicks off mid-December in Moscow. It involves sleigh rides, traditional folk music and dance, ice-skating on the frozen lake, warm street food and vodka. Travellers in Russia should also check out the pagan holiday St John The Baptist’s Day. Here, you can marvel at fiery bonfires being lit across cities, towns and villages alike.

The sheer number and variety of awesome Russian festivals and events isn’t simply limited to these! We’ve only scratched the surface of Russia’s amazing national depth. Browse our travel blog articles below for more fascinating insights about Russian cultural festivities, seasonal traditions and holiday celebrations.