by Olga, age 9, asks Ded Moroz is your home in Veliky Ustyug, not the North Pole?, about the Moskva River, and why Russians celebrate New Year big
Dear Ded Moroz,
My name is Olga 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, is your home in Veliky Ustyug, not the North Pole?
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 a piece of medovik cake and a glass of compote.
Love, Olga, age 9, Moscow, Russia, Moscow, Russia
From the Desk of Ded Moroz
Dear Olga, thank you for the treat, it was wonderful. Now, your questions.
Is your home in Veliky Ustyug, not the North Pole?
Veliky Ustyug is indeed considered my official home here in Russia, a town that has embraced the title warmly, complete with its own version of my residence.
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, Olga.
Ho ho ho, Ded Moroz
