by Ivan, age 8, asks Ded Moroz do you come on New Year’s Eve instead of Christmas Eve?, about the Moskva River, and why Russians celebrate New Year big
Dear Ded Moroz,
My name is Ivan and I am 8 years old. I live in Moscow, Russia, where we celebrate Novy God, New Year, with an even bigger tree and more presents than Christmas itself, and my babushka always makes olivier salad.
First, do you come on New Year’s Eve instead of Christmas Eve?
Second, a geography question: what river runs through Moscow?
Third, a school question about my country: why do Russians celebrate New Year even bigger than Christmas Day?
I left you blini with jam and a cup of tea.
Love, Ivan, age 8, Moscow, Russia, Moscow, Russia
From the Desk of Ded Moroz
Dear Ivan, thank you for the treat, it was wonderful. Now, your questions.
Do you come on New Year’s Eve instead of Christmas Eve?
That is exactly right. I arrive on New Year’s Eve here in Russia, a tradition that grew stronger during years when Christmas itself was harder to celebrate openly.
What river runs through Moscow?
The Moskva River winds right through the city, past the Kremlin and Red Square, both lit up beautifully with snow on the rooftops by the time I arrive.
Why do Russians celebrate New Year even bigger than Christmas Day?
For much of the twentieth century, Russia’s government discouraged religious holidays like Christmas, so New Year became the country’s biggest winter celebration instead, complete with a decorated tree and gifts. Christmas itself is still celebrated too, especially by the Orthodox Church, which follows a different calendar and marks it in early January.
S Novym Godom, Ivan.
Ho ho ho, Ded Moroz
