Magic Winter
Perhaps, the best time to feel the Russian spirit is during this frosty and snowy season, when ice rinks sparkle in city squares, lights twinkle above bustling streets, and the crisp air fills every walk with a sense of wonder.
In Moscow, it may seem that winter is one everlasting holiday. Folks like to prolong the prevailing magical festive mood well after New Year’s and keep the Christmas trees around the capital up almost until spring.
Where Magic Comes to Life
Very soon the city will transform: glowing with lights, filled with music, and alive with celebration. Moscow’s favourite winter joys are returning, along with gifts from the city itself. One of them is the “Winter in Moscow” project — a new tradition that turns the capital into a living fairy tale, full of warmth, sparkle, and wonder. Across more than 400 venues and 800 events, the season unfolds in concerts, markets, skating rinks, and open-air festivals that make Moscow shine brighter than ever.
And as the celebrations draw near, we all start whispering our own winter wishes — fun, bold, and a bit mischievous. After all, the New Year is the perfect moment to dream big… or at least dream delicious. So, this winter, what do you wish for?
I WISH
TO RECEIVE
TO MAKE
TO TASTE
TO SKATE
TO EXPERIENCE
TO MAKE
TO TASTE
TO BUY
TO RELAX
TO CATCH
TO DRINK
TO TAKE
TO RELAX
TO CATCH
TO SNAP
TO TRY
TO MEET
TO SEE
TO BUILD
TO TRY
TO MEET
One for Your New Year Wishlist
A Moscow Gift Guide: What to Bring Home
Moscow turns into a winter marketplace of creativity during the holiday season. Across the city, themed pavilions showcase local designers, artisans, confectioners, and homeware brands. We’ve gathered the best gifts to bring home and exactly where to find them.
As the streets fill with lights and festive music, the city bursts with limited-edition treats, handcrafted ornaments, stylish décor, and designer pieces you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re hunting for a thoughtful souvenir, a show-stopping New Year present, or something uniquely Moscow, this guide will help you discover it all.
Magic Winter Map
Winter Activities
In Moscow, winter is anything but quiet. The city’s parks come alive with sparkling ice rinks, snow tubing hills, and weekend festivals that turn the cold season into a celebration. Visitors can enjoy creative outdoor activities, atmospheric light installations, or take part in themed races, open-air performances, and cosy family gatherings as snow dusts the city.
At VDNH, one of Moscow’s most beloved winter destinations, the fun continues beyond the ice rink. The Carousel of Gifts market and New Year celebrations fill the grounds with light and music, while Pavilion No. 1 hosts the exhibition Images of Moscow in Russian Art from the State Russian Museum collection.
And for those seeking something truly memorable, head to Sokolniki Park to meet the friendly huskies at Husky Park, or try a snowmobile adventure just outside the city, where speed, snow, and adrenaline make for an unforgettable day. Moscow in winter is a playground for everyone: glide, race, explore, and embrace the season.
Ice Rinks
From riverside trails and glowing pavilions to festive squares and historic gardens — discover the places to skate in Moscow with the best vibes this winter.
Winter Flavours
From slow-cooked comfort food and time-honoured recipes to elegant, festive menus, winter dining in Moscow is all about warmth, richness, and the atmosphere.
New Year's Moscow Breakfast
From December 22 to January 11, Moscow invites visitors to start their winter mornings with the New Year’s Moscow Breakfast, one of the city's key gastronomic events.
More than 500 cafés and restaurants across all districts of the city are taking part, offering special breakfast sets created for the holiday season. Guests can choose between class favourites, such as eggs, porridge, pancakes, toast, coffee, and tea, or try holiday twists inspired by cuisines from around the world.
For Families
One of the brightest spots of the season is Cinema Park Moskino, which turns into a real winter wonderland. Children can meet Ded Moroz (Russian Santa Claus) at his festive house, race down tubing slides with multiple lanes, or skate on the grand ice rink set against the backdrop of “Cathedral Square of Moscow” decorations. Throughout the season, the park will host acting and filmmaking workshops, classes on making Christmas toys, and hands-on sessions. There will be plenty of opportunities for kids (and parents) to discover something new and to make magical winter memories together.
Warm Up and Unwind
After a day on the ice or in the snow, there’s nothing better than warming up Moscow-style. The city’s bathhouses and spa centres turn relaxation into an art form, from historic steam rooms steeped in tradition to luxurious modern sanctuaries with panoramic pools and signature rituals. Discover where to recharge and thaw out after your winter adventures.
Download this PDF featuring the key winter activities and keep it handy. Have a wonderful winter in Moscow!
