by Dima, age 9, asks Ded Moroz do you have a granddaughter named Snegurochka who helps you?, about the Moskva River, and why Russians celebrate New Year big
Dear Ded Moroz,
My name is Dima and I am 9 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 have a granddaughter named Snegurochka who helps you?
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 pryaniki cookies and a cup of hot tea.
Love, Dima, age 9, Moscow, Russia, Moscow, Russia
From the Desk of Ded Moroz
Dear Dima, thank you for the treat, it was wonderful. Now, your questions.
Do you have a granddaughter named Snegurochka who helps you?
I do, my granddaughter Snegurochka, the Snow Maiden, who travels with me and is every bit as beloved as I am, if not more so, in many households.
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, Dima.
Ho ho ho, Ded Moroz
