by Anya, age 7, asks Ded Moroz why do you wear a long blue or white robe instead of a red jacket?, about the Moskva River, and why Russians celebrate New Year big
Dear Ded Moroz,
My name is Anya and I am 7 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, why do you wear a long blue or white robe instead of a red jacket?
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 slice of napoleon cake and tea.
Love, Anya, age 7, Moscow, Russia, Moscow, Russia
From the Desk of Ded Moroz
Dear Anya, thank you for the treat, it was wonderful. Now, your questions.
Why do you wear a long blue or white robe instead of a red jacket?
Blue and white better reflect the deep Russian winter, the color of frost and snow, which has simply always suited my role here more than red.
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, Anya.
Ho ho ho, Ded Moroz
