Christmas and New Year in Russia: from ancient Rus’ to the present day

In pre-Christian ancient Rus’, winter celebrations were tied to pagan rituals. In the early 18th century, Peter the Great moved the start of the new year to 1 January, aligning Russia with the European calendar. New Year became a secular holiday, marked by fir trees, fireworks, and masquerades, while Christmas remained a religious celebration on 25 December (Julian calendar). After the 1917 Revolution, Christmas was banned as a religious holiday and deemed anti-Soviet.

This lecture will trace the evolution of New Year and Christmas celebrations in Russia, highlighting the rituals and customs of different eras and how political and cultural changes shaped these traditions. You’ll also discover fascinating details about Soviet-era symbols and festive foods, as well as how St Petersburg celebrates today — from official events and Christmas services to city decorations, ice-skating rinks, and gift markets.

The lecture will be brought to life with unique materials, including photographs, historical illustrations, and modern views of St Petersburg, immersing you in the festive spirit as this year’s New Year and Christmas season draws to a close.

Lecturer

Anastasia Babaeva graduated from St Petersburg State University with a degree in English Language and Literature. She was a scholarship recipient of the international EuroCulture Master’s programme in European Studies at the University of Deusto (Bilbao, Spain). Since 2017, she has worked in dubbing and film translation, and since 2021, she has been teaching Spanish at the Faculty of International Relations at St Petersburg State University.

The lecture will be held as part of the events to mark the 300th anniversary of St Petersburg University, the oldest university in Russia.

The meeting will be held online in Spanish with simultaneous interpreting into Russian.

REGISTRATION